SWINDON Wildcats have snapped up young star Harvey Stead for the 2015-16 season.

Despite having options to play abroad and from other English Premier League clubs, former Bracknell Bees D-man Stead has chosen to head to the Link Centre.

The 19-year-old has spent the last two seasons with the Bees, making 82 appearances and scoring two goals as well as 12 assists.

Stead’s arrival continues new Cats boss Stevie Lyle’s summer shopping spree as he looks to piece together a new-look side capable of taking on the best in the division.

“I felt like I needed a change of environment and scenery after a tough 2014-15 at Bracknell,” said Stead.

“It seemed as if my development had slipped down the order of importance and, after 14 seasons at one club, I felt that it was time for a change and a different direction for me to head for.”

“After speaking to Stevie at length about the team and how he wanted to play, I knew it would be a good fit for me to develop and to take my game to the next step.

“Swindon have always been competitive every season and, after seeing how other guys have developed whilst playing at the club, I knew it would be the right choice for me join and push on with my development.

“It was an easy decision to make signing with Swindon after experiencing the support the fans have for the Wildcats and the atmosphere last year there was fantastic, one as an away player you dread, so it will be good to be on their side.”

Stead will be well known to many in the Cats camp having played with Floyd Taylor, Michael Stratford, Toms Rutkis, Matt Selby and Jordan Hedley at GB level, and he is confident that the team can do well.

“I know quite a bit about the team Stevie has put together and I’m excited to get started and play with the rest of the guys,” said Stead.

“It’s a very competitive, hard-working and skilled team which will play a good brand of hockey and who will be looking to compete in every game and win many of them.

“Stevie has brought in quite a few new faces including myself, but we’re no strangers to one another. He’s kept the good strong core of guys from last year and added to that with the new additions, so hopefully it all works well and we will be celebrating success at the end of the season.

“I’m excited to be part of the Wildcats organisation next year, I’m ready to get started and can’t wait to see all of the supporters in September.”

Cats are expected to complete their 2015-16 roster with one final signing later this week.