IMPROVING standards across the National Ice Hockey League means adding depth and quality to Swindon Wildcats’ roster has been necessary, according to managing director Steve Nell.

The Wildcats enjoyed their most successful season since the turn of the millennium last term, landing both the Autumn Trophy and National Cup within a month of each other.

Taking little for granted, the Wildcats have recruited strongly over the summer to fill the voids left by departing players Phil Hill, Ollie Stone and Matt Smital among others.

Former Edinburgh Capitals Elite League heavyweight Tyler Plews has made the move south with Adam Harding, Loris Taylor, Sam Jones and Elliot Randall also signing on.

Back-up netminder Tyler Perre is another new face to fans and Nell insists the club’s additions will play a key part in the Wildcats’ success this season.

He said: “I’d say we’re a touch stronger. We’ve added a bit of depth and quality defensively as well.

“I think the boys that were good last year can only get better. Renny (Marr, netminder) was good and I think he’ll get better again.

“With the depth and quality we’ve added I do believe we’ve improved, and we’ll need to be because other teams are doing just as we are.”

The former Wildcats player – who took charge of the club as general manager in 2004 – made particular reference to young netminder Marr when discussing chances of success this season.

Marr, 20, joined the Link Centre outfit last season having featured as back-up netminder under Danny Stewart at Coventry Blaze for two seasons.

His work in the Elite League has stood the Lochgelly-born stopper in good stead for a positive career in the sport and Nell was delighted to capture his signature for the upcoming season.

He said: “Renny wasn’t really known last year and some people did think it was a risk bringing him in, but he’s been great for us.

“He matured all the way through the season. I think that will continue this season.

“We were flying at the end of last season, and that’s what you want. You want to peak at the end of the year, and that’s exactly what we were doing.”