NETMINDER Graeme Bird has returned to Swindon's NIHL Wildcats side for a second spell.

The 27 year old, previously made four appearances for the Wildcats' English Premier League side and 11 for the NIHL side, with the Stockport-born player spending the close season looking to return to the sport he loves.

"I took the difficult decision to take last season off in order to concentrate on my new job," said Bird.

"I had a six week course to complete down in Southampton, so travel was going to be an issue and I also began a fast-track University course back in January so although I did trial for the Cats last season, I wasn't really in a position to provide as much commitment as I would have liked so it didn't turn in to anything, which on reflection, was a good thing.

"I've missed playing and can't wait to get back to being involved with games so I've spent the summer back on the ice training with a group of lads which showed me how much I've missed the game.

"I've been doing a lot of cycling to work on my cardio too, so I'm ready for training when it starts."

Bird has also iced with Flintshire, Bracknell, Romford, Basingstoke, Haringey and Cardiff and added: "The season I spent at Basingstoke was interesting.

"I lived with Jeremy Cornish (now coach with the Wightlink Raiders) which was good and I got to work with Kevin Reiter who had a massive influence on my attitude and game.

"He helped me so much and I owe a lot to him.

"I think at most clubs I've had someone that has had a good influence on me and my game, in Bracknell it was Nathan Craze, Romford it was Mike Brabon and Geoff Woolhouse, Swindon it was Tom Murdy and Dean Skinns and Cardiff it was Dan LaCosta.

"You're always learning in hockey, and I can't wait to do the same under Stevie Lyle."

The club are seeking sponsorship for the NIHL Wildcats 2015-16 season. Call Wildcats marketing manager Sally Price on 01793 886 857 or email her at marketing@swindonwildcats.com for details.