THE Bespoke Guardians Swindon Wildcats have signed experienced British forward Russ Cowley on a contract for the remainder of the 2022-23 NIHL season.

Cowley has been a prominent figure in British ice hockey throughout his career, seeing out spells with Cardiff Devils, Basingstoke Bison, Milton Keynes Lightning, and most-famously the Coventry Blaze.

The Canadian-born forward began his career with Swindon Phoenix around the start of the current millennium before moving to the Blaze in 2001.

After winning multiple titles with Coventry, Cowley announced his intention to retire in 2017 but continued playing in the NIHL with the Bison and Lightning.

Having now signed for the Wildcats, Cowley will be included in Swindon’s squad for games against the Bees and his former club Basingstoke.

After securing a deal to bring one of the premier British forwards in the National League to the Link Centre, head coach Aaron Nell said: “Russ will be a big part of our forward line and we’re all excited to see him back in Swindon.

“He’s got a very close relationship with Lee Richardson, and I know how excited they both are to be back on a team together.

“He’s got experience at very high level and was still producing over a point per game in the National League last year.

“We’re excited to get working with Russ and I know the fans will be looking forward to seeing him on the ice this weekend.”