PETE Russell has vowed to bring an exciting brand of hockey to the Link Centre next season - after making youngster Ciaran Long his latest signing.

The Swindon Wildcats coach has hailed the re-signing of Long and believes it is another sign of good times ahead in the English Premier League next campaign.

Long joins the likes of captain Wayne Fiddes, defenseman Shane Moore and up and GB youngster Jamie Hayes in committing again to Swindon, with Russell encouraged by the squad he is building.

He said: "Ciaran returns to us after his first full season with the team last year. He has great ability and a good skill level.

"Ciaran gained good experience on the ice last year for a first year player and developed well throughout the season, scoring some big goals.

"He gained good experience on the ice last year for a first year player and developed well throughout the season scoring some big goals."

Long, 17, is a product of the Swindon junior ice hockey development programme and has represented England at under 15 and under 16 level.

He was the deserved winner of the Wildcats' most improved player' award in 2007/08 and more big things are expected of him.

"Ciaran is another lad who is desperate to do well and fulfil his potential here in Swindon," said Russell. "Like all of our players for the new season he has been working hard throughout the summer to build his strength up and further develop his game.

"It is great to have him back and I know we are going to see him progress and become better and stronger.

"For the new season we have put together a team that is very young, talented and desperate to do well for Swindon. As we get into the season I think you will see some very exciting ice hockey here at Swindon."