SWINDON Wildcats’ newest import Tyler VanKleef says the winning culture at the club most attracted him to make the move across from Bracknell Bees ahead of this year’s inaugural National League campaign.

Canadian skater VanKleef joins fans' favourite Tomasz Malasinski as Aaron Nell’s two overseas signings for the upcoming campaign as the Wildcats look to build on last season’s NIHL South One league title triumph when the first puck drops on Saturday, September 21.

The Ontario native was a vital part of the Bees reaching finals weekend last season after heading to Berkshire in the final days of 2018, scoring 30 points in 28 games – 21 of which were goals – as VanKleef’s first British club fell to Hull Pirates in the semi-finals of the national play-offs.

Now in Wiltshire, the 27-year-old is fully focused on helping Nell’s side make it three consecutive seasons with silverware in their trophy cabinet.

“I’m delighted to be joining Swindon,” said VanKleef.

“From my conversations with Aaron about how he wants the team to play, the winning culture, the organisation and the fans, I just can’t wait to get started.

“I’ve heard nothing but good things about the club and the community and I cannot wait to meet everyone in September.

“I will do all I can to continue the winning culture within the community and help drive team performance to winning some more silverware for the club.”

Standing at 6ft tall and 181lbs, VanKleef will certainly bring some added power to an already sizeable forward line at the Link Centre.

Nell believes his newest signing can exceed expectations while in the red and white of Swindon, and the experienced goalscorer feels his primary attributes fit perfectly into the Wildcats’ style of play.

VanKleef said: “I think the three greatest strengths in my game are my skating, scoring and physicality.

“Every time we played Swindon last year it was a battle, and knowing first-hand how difficult they are to play against, I’m excited to be a part of it now.

“I just want to tell the fans that I can’t wait to join Swindon and become a Wildcat.”