The Bespoke Guardians Swindon Wildcats are thrilled to be announcing another popular returnee for the 23/24 season, with the news that Balint Pakozdi will be wearing the Wildcats colours again.

Balint, originally joined the Wildcats in preparation for the 20/21 season which was impacted by the Covid Pandemic. Having been a product of the Okanagan Hockey Academy, Bali had spent a lot of his junior career in Swindon and was returning to be a part of the main Wildcats team for the first time.

After some time in Sweden and North America, Bali’s first season in Swindon featured 14 points in 12 games and caught the eyes of Aaron Fox and Bali was drafted by the Sheffield Steelers for the EIHL Series that followed that season.

Throughout his time in Swindon so far Bali has played in 123 games and scored 124 points.

Head Coach Aaron Nell said:

I’m delighted to have secured Bali’s signature for another year, the way he plays the game is different to the rest of our top 6 and he’s been a very consistent player for us this year. He’s a very hard-working individual and a passionate hockey player. He makes big plays and gets under the skin of our opponents.

I’m excited to work with him for another season and considering he’s only 23, the best years of Bali are still ahead of him.

Balint himself added:

“I’m absolutely delighted to be back in Swindon for another year! I think we’ve got better this year as the season has gone on and we have the potential to be a great team having a great season next year!

I’m looking to score more goals, win more games and get some trophies! I’ve been lucky enough to play with Aaron and Malas and I don’t think it can get much better than playing alongside those guys so I’m enjoying every second of it!

The fans have been brilliant this year and we’ve had some unbelievable atmospheres at the Link Centre. Hopefully next year we can win a few more games and keep the cheers and smiles on everyone’s faces!”

If you’re interested in sponsoring Balint or any of the 23/24 Wildcats please email sally.price@swindonwildcats.comfor more information.