Forward Scott Pitt has left Braehead Clan after opting for a move to mainland Europe.

The 29-year-old Canadian joined the Clan back in 2014 from DEL2 club Eispiraten Crimmitshau and went on to become the Clan’s all time top points scoring player.

During his three seasons with the club, Pitt amassed 82 goals and 97 assists in 155 games and finished second in all EIHL scoring last season.

Clan Hockey and Operations Director Gareth Chalmers commented: “I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Scott for his time with the Clan.

“John and myself discussed with Scott about the opportunity to return to the Clan for another season, however coming off the superb season he had, he understandably wanted to make a career move.

“That is the nature of the sport and we fully respect Scott’s decision and reasons. Scott has always been highly professional on and off the ice, one of the best players we’ve ever had here in Braehead and we wish himself and his wife Lauren all the best in their new adventure.”

Meanwhile new Clan head coach John Tripp has continued his recruitment drive ahead of the new signing as American forward Jacob Doty checks in at Braehead to become the ninth player on the 2017/18 roster.

Doty arrives from the NHL’s St Louis Blues system. More recently he has played in the AHL and ECHL.

He’s delighted to be sampling life in Europe as he makes his first move abroad and is looking forward to being part of Tripp’s ew look Braehead Clan team.

He said: “I’ve heard nothing but good things about Braehead Clan and the league from everyone I spoke to.

“I’ve had my eye on the Elite League for a while so it was about finding a spot.

“John’s looking for a fast, high-tempo team and I’ll bring a more physical aspect. That’s something I’ve done all through my career and the coach and I had good talks about the team and the direction it’s going in.

“I’m all about finishing checks and being smart defensively. I won’t take many minor penalties and I don’t like my team going short-handed.

“I’m not afraid to take a seat in the box for five minutes and stick up for my team-mates. Being hard to play against is a staple part of my game ever since I started.”

Doty started out with Yellowstone Quake in the NPHL before moving on to Seattle Thunderbirds then Medicine Hat Tigers in the WHL.