Swindon Wildcats are delighted to confirm that Neil Liddiard has signed a one year contract extension to remain a part of the Wildcats for the 2020/21 National League Season. The 41-year-old defenceman, who joined from Guildford Flames in 2015, will be entering his sixth season with the organisation.

Lidds has become a key part of our defensive core over the last few years and has been known for his ability to put his body on the line for the team by blocking shots all over the ice. On top of this he’s been a part of the leadership core in Swindon by being an Alternate Captain.

Speaking after making his third signing of the week Head Coach Aaron Nell added:

“Bringing Lidds back to Swindon was always a no-brainer. I spoke with him early on in the season and once he made it clear he wanted to carry on playing for at least another year I wasted no time in asking him to return. The way he plays the game needs no explaining to the Wildcats fans and he gets my upmost admiration for the way he throws himself in front of shots night in night out.

He leads by example and is the epitome of a team guy. I’m delighted to have Lidds back for another year and whilst he may be quite quiet he’s a big part of the team and a massive part of our locker-room. Players like Stevie Whitfield and Tyler Plews have learned so much from him and I’m excited to be working with him again next year.”

Neil himself was also delighted to have put ink on another 12 months with the Wildcats, adding:

“I spoke to Aaron quite early on in the year and he wanted to know what my thoughts were for next year and I still feel like I can contribute and do a job out there. I love playing the game and spending the time with the boys so it was a relatively easy decision to sign on with the team for another season, plus I think my wife wanted me out of the house for another year!!

 It’s always nice to have some security over the summer, I’ve had a few summers in the past where there’s some uncertainty but it’s good to get it sorted early this year so I can concentrate on my off season schedule and getting ready for the new season.

I have always said that as long the body holds up I’ll continue to play. I’d like to think I eat well and train well so as long as the body doesn’t let me down then I’ll continue to play for as long as I can. I know I’ll always love playing the game so I want to keep going as long as I can. I’ve always said I wanted to play for Swindon again before I retired and it’s not disappointed at all. I’ve loved every minute of it and I can’t wait for the new season already.”

We’d like to thank Kidz Party Crew for their continued sponsorship of Neil this season and would like to remind everyone that you can contact our Commercial Manager Sally Price for all sponsorship enquiries on sally.price@swindonwildcats.com