Latest signing wants to help Dundee Stars secure winning start

The final member of the Dundee Stars squad to arrive in Tayside is determined to get off to a winning start.

Elgin Pearce flew into the UK on Saturday and arrived at Dundee Ice Arena during the Stars’ first friendly match against Odense Bulldogs.

The Canadian was brought on to the ice during the first period break and received a warm welcome from the fans.

Elgin said: “It was really nice having a chance to be introduced to the fans when I wasn’t even playing.

“It really was a warm welcome and something I didn’t expect, it was great.

“Coming in on Saturday, I kind of wanted to stay out of the way and let the guys play but I found myself in the dressing room at the end of the game and everyone was super welcoming.”

The Stars new number seven has already been impressed with what he has seen so far in the City of Discovery.

“I got a chance to walk around downtown and check everything out.

“It is my first time in Europe so I wasn’t sure what to expect but downtown seems quite vibrant and a lot of people are excited about the team,” added Pearce.

Now that he has begun to settle in, the centreman has already set his sights on winning as the first weekend of competitive hockey approaches.

He said: “The first games are coming up this weekend and these are the first real games, so I am excited.

“I am also excited to see what battle we have and what level of competition we have but I think we will do well against Glasgow.

“Getting off to a winning start is obviously one of the most important things.

“It just gets everything rolling and it gives everyone a little bit more confidence.

“The goalies get a bit more confident and the fans want to see a winning team, so getting that first win early is crucial.”

The Stars face the Glasgow Clan on Saturday night away from home in the Challenge Cup group stages before hosting the Clan on Sunday evening.

Tickets for Sunday’s home game are available from the Dundee Ice Arena box office and online.

Picture: Derek Black. New Star Elgin Pearce, right.