Joe Miller calls time on Telford Tigers career

Miller takes to the ice against Solway Sharks at the Telford Ice Rink for the final time after deciding to call time on his playing days to pursue a career away from the sport.

The 32-year-old recently completed his degree and has now secured a new job in the insurance industry.

Tigers head coach Tom Watkins is disappointed to lose such a key player but fully understands Miller’s decision.

“It’s a massive loss for us as a team and a club to lose Joe part-way through the season, but I fully understand and support his decision to be able to focus his time and effort on his long term career,” said Watkins.

“He has worked extremely hard over the last few years on his degree and he has a great opportunity in his chosen profession, which is where he must focus his attention. Joe has kept me up to speed during the situation for which I am grateful.”

Miller has posted some impressive numbers so far this season, with 23 goals and 26 assists from the 28 league, cups and challenge games.

He said: “Obviously it has been a very difficult decision to make, especially part way through a season. I love playing hockey, but I need to look to the future for me and my family.

“I have really enjoyed my time with the Tigers, playing here on a number of occasions throughout my career and not playing hockey will leave a big gap.”

Miller rejoined Tigers at the start of the campaign and first played for the club in 2003/2004. Watkins will now increase his efforts to sign a replacement.