Tigers' Dumas hangs up his skates

Dumas celebrates his final goal for Telford against Wightlink Raiders

Telford Tigers player-coach Claude Dumas has announced the end of his playing career.

"I feel it is time. I have achieved everything I wanted to as a player," said the French-Canadian.

"I wasn't intending to play this season but had to when the club sponsor pulled out and I have really enjoyed this extra year."

The 42-year-old scored twice in his final home game for the Tigers, taking his total this season to 15.

"Although I still love playing, I want to leave while I'm still at a certain standard," he added.

A native of Quebec, Dumas was a fifth-round draft pick for Washington Capitals in 1985.

During his career in the UK, he has regularly been selected for the British Ice Hockey Writers 'All Star' team and has set numerous goal-scoring records.

My motivations have changed and I enjoy the coaching side more now

Claude Dumas

"I wasn't too concerned about my personal stats," he said. "After being a top player in the past it was just good to be able to contribute this season."

Dumas first joined Whitley Bay Warriors in 1990 and quickly established himself as a frequent goal-scorer.

At his peak, in his first season with Telford Tigers in 1995-6, he clocked up a staggering 235 points - 150 goals and 85 assists.

He took on the role of player-coach at Telford in 2003 and since then has made no secret of his desire to concentrate on developing the team and its players.

"My motivations have changed and I enjoy the coaching side more now. I want to concentrate on doing that from the bench and let the other players do their jobs on the ice."

There will be a special tribute to Claude Dumas from the club and the supporters at a Tigers night at the Telford Ice Rink on Friday 3 April (1930 BST).