THE Bespoke Guardians Swindon Wildcats’ all-time record appearance holder, Sam Bullas, has agreed to return to the club again next season.

The 2022-23 National Ice Hockey League campaign will mark Bullas’ 14th-consecutive season with the Wildcats after moving to the area from his home town of Nottingham in 2009.

Last weekend, the 31-year-old iced in his 626th and 627th games for Swindon, breaking the previous record which was held by former captain Wayne Fiddes.

In a statement from the club announcing the deal, the Wildcats said: “Bully has truly become and icon of the club and a legend in the town.

“Not just for his efforts and achievements on the ice, but Bully has spent hours in the community programme, at learn to play sessions and holiday camps. There are so many players in the junior ranks that are there because of Sam.

“On the ice, he has played a vital role in the successes we’ve had as a team over the last few seasons.

“His goal in the 2018 Autumn Cup final was the one which sealed the trophy for the Wildcats. He’s also played a massive role in the other two cup wins and of course the league title in 2019.”

Speaking to in-house media after putting pen to paper, Bullas said: “Swindon is my second home, there really is no-where else I’d play.

“I’d like to thank Aaron, Steve and the Nell family for the way they have treated me since being here.

“The club runs through my veins and I love nothing more than seeing the Link Centre packed out on a Saturday night.

“Hopefully, we can continue to pack the arena out for the remainder of the season as we continue our hunt for a league title and look ahead to the playoffs. We want to finish the season on a high and enjoy our summer.”

Meanwhile, Wildcats head coach Aaron Nell was pleased to keep his good friend around for another year.

He said: “It wouldn’t be a Wildcats team without Bully so I’m delighted to have him back for another year.

“He’s our captain and our leader. He battles every night and can play anywhere across our line-up.

“I was delighted for him to break the appearance record against Peterborough and I hope he continues to add to those numbers in the coming years.”