Mackriel first took up ice hockey aged seven

Long-serving Daniel Mackriel will go out on a high at Telford Tigers after announcing his ice hockey retirement.

Mackriel has played for 24 years since starting aged seven, and will bow out in Tigers' last game of the season at home to Guildford on Sunday [March 27].

Coach Tom Watkins told BBC Radio Shropshire: "He's a great character and a great player - he's a huge loss."

Mackriel said: "I'll miss it, but life changes and I can't wait for weekends with my daughter rather than on a bus."

Mackriel took a season out last year for family and business reasons but returned this year for Telford Tigers at the age of 30.

He started first-team hockey with the old Telford Tigers in 1996. He also had spells with Blackburn, Solihull, Romford and Slough.

Always a fans' favourite, Mackriell picked up the nickname 'Budzy' following his goalscoring exploits as a junior, emulating those of former Tigers import Mark Budz.

Watkins appointed him assistant captain on his return, and Mackriel hopes the Telford coach continues to make use of his experience next season.

"I have told Tom that if he would like some help at home games, on the bench or whatever, I'll be there," Mackriel said.

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