Zajac was playing for Whitley, who were Dumas' first English club

Telford Tigers have strengthened their first-team defence with highly-rated pair Sam Zajac and Stuart Bates.

"The squad's looking impressive, and I'm really looking forward to playing for Claude Dumas," said Zajac, 19, on his arrival from Whitley Warriors.

"I wanted to take the step up from ENL to Premier League hockey, and it's an exciting time to join the Tigers."

Bates is promoted from Tigers' second team after graduating from college and said: "I can't wait to get playing."

Bates, 21, who has risen through the Tigers ranks, is looking forward to working with former junior team-mate Tom Carlon on his return to the club.

"We grew up together, so I know how he plays and we have always linked up well," he added.

These two latest additions follow hot on the heels of the signing of Canadian import Jason Cassells.