OWEN Griffiths is hoping that he has what it takes to make the grade at the Swindon Wildcats after joining the club from Wightlink Raiders.

The teenager, who turns 19 next week, is the final signing of the summer for Link Centre chief Stevie Lyle.

The former Cardiff Devils youngster – who turned down the advances of Manchester and Bracknell, as well as the Raiders – is relishing testing himself in the English Premier League after testing himself against sides at that level last season in the Challenge Cup.

“I wanted to use the games to test myself against the speed and intensity of a truly professional team,” Griffiths said.

“Although the results showed the difference in the playing standards between the two divisions, it allowed me the chance to learn.

“It was through those games that I believed I could compete and contribute within an EPIHL team.

“Stepping up a league challenges every aspect within your game. My training intensity has increased in preparation for the quicker and more physically demanding season. “I’m really looking forward to playing with experienced teammates who can help not only with the time out on the ice but with the mental aspect of the game too.”

Having grown up at Cardiff, Griffiths says the move to the south coast isle helped him develop.

“I had a really great time with the Raiders and they have such a close group of people in the team and around the organisation,” the 18-year-old centre said.

“Living with new teammates in a team house away from home is an experience I will never forget.

“I wanted to move away from home and experiencing being part of a professional set up with some responsibilities at a young age.

“This year Stevie contacted me and we talked through his plans for the team and the season in general and it was a far better fit for me.

“I’ve always looked to improve and Swindon really appealed to me for that development opportunity. “It’s a team known for giving young players a chance and Stevie was adamant that if you show you are good enough you will get the opportunities.

“I think that’s all you can ask for and seeing the quality of the squad he has assembled, I really can’t wait for the season to start.”

During his time at the Raiders, Griffiths helped the club seal the South Conference play-off championship making 56 appearances, scoring 20 goals and 38 assists along the way.

With that in mind Lyle believes his new man is ready to step up to Premier League level.

“Owen is a great lad, and everyone tells me what a great player he is – this is his chance to prove himself at a higher level,” said the Cats boss.

“I know that Manchester and Bracknell were after him, but Owen wanted to come Swindon because he is a Wildcats fan even though he is from Cardiff.

“He is full of energy and great skater. I will be looking to the likes of him to push our players because we have a strong side this year.”