Wildcats boosted by Hoog signing

The Swindon Wildcats went on a very good streak towards the end of last season, and in the process clinched a playoff spot. They fell in the first round of the playoffs, but the 2011/12 campaign was definitely one of promise.

An integral part of that campaign was Swedish forward, Jonas Hoog. In early July, the ‘Cats managed to fight off stiff competition and gain his signature for another year of hockey in Swindon. This is a pivotal and exciting signing for Swindon.

Hoog ended up leading the 2012 EPL points tally table at the end of the regular season, finishing with a massive 92 points in just 54 appearances. He scores his goals with finesse and often shows his wide range of exquisite puck-handling skills.

Aaron Nell, who has also signed a contract for next season, formed a formidable partnership going forward with the Swede for the second half of last season. If these two find that form from the backend of last season, the Wildcats first line could easily be the most destructive in the league, with Lee Richardson playing alongside Nell and Hoog.

Swindon fans are optimistic ahead of next season, as head coach Ryan Aldridge has been working hard to build solid foundations for his squad for next season. The ‘Cats still have space for some more overseas players to arrive, as Michel Pinc has left for France, and Jarislav Cesky’s future is still uncertain.

The Wildcats 2012/13 squad currently looks like this:

Goaltenders – Thomas Murdy (GB)

Defenceman – Joe Baird (GB), Shane Moore (GB), Jan Melichar (CZE), Paul Swindlehurst (GB), Steve Whitfield (GB)

Forwards – Ryan Aldridge (GB), Sam Bullas (GB), Jonas Hoog (Swe), Aaron Nell (GB), Lee Richardson (GB), Nicky Watt (GB)

The Wildcats squad improved a lot over the course of last season. It offers high levels of skill and a nice blend of youth and experience. The ‘Cats are definitely a team to watch for next season.