SWINDON Wildcats have committed themselves to competing in the English Premier League for next season, securing the future of the competition in the process.

Owners of each of the current EPL clubs met on Sunday, with the Cats one of seven sides to pledge their participation for the 2017/18 campaign.

The future of the league had been in question following the withdrawal of three of the competition's current clubs ahead of next season.

Manchester Phoenix pulled out of the league in January after they were forced to fold due to financial reasons, while Milton Keynes Lightning and Guildford Flames are both set to move up to the Elite League for 2017/18.

However, Swindon, alongside Telford Tigers, Peterborough Phantoms Basingstoke Bison, Sheffield Steeldogs, Hull Pirates and Bracknell Bees will continue to compete in the second tier of British ice hockey next term.

From the start of the 2017/18 season, the competition will be rebranded as the Premier Ice Hockey League, while other rules were also implemented at Sunday’s meeting.

The number of non-British trained players on each roster will drop from five to three, giving home grown talent the chance to develop as well as trying to bring financial stability to the league, while from the 2019/20 season, only British trained goalkeepers will be allowed to compete.

The bankruptcy ruling agreed at the previous meeting between the clubs will also form part of the rules of competition from next season.

A statement on behalf of the league said: “What can be instantly seen is the commitment to the league and a commitment to longevity which will develop an exciting breed of talented young players.

“The structure of the league and cup competitions will largely remain the same, although there are some finer details to be worked out, and the owners will meet again at the end of March to finalise these.

“Following this meeting there is a desire to have everything in place, and announced, by the Play-Off Finals weekend so that owners, players, sponsors and fans have full confidence in the league as a viable and successful model.

“This is an exciting time for the Premier Ice Hockey League, and the sport within the UK, after what has been a challenging year.

“There has been a recognition that our outlook has to evolve in order for our game to evolve, the only way to do this is to invest in our British players and provide them with the best environment in which to thrive and develop.

“We are actively looking to expand as a league and are hoping that the changes, and commitments made, will encourage other clubs and teams to join us in providing a stable and exciting future.

“We, as a league, are fully committed to making this a reality, we are driven to succeed and ask fans across the country to join and support us in our vision.”

Swindon are currently fifth in the EPL table with six fixtures remaining before the end-of-season play-offs.

Aaron Nell’ side resume their schedule on Saturday when they welcome Bracknell to the Link Centre before travelling to Guildford on Sunday.