SWINDON Wildcats have announced the re-signing of defender Tyler Plews for the 2019-20 National League season.

Plews linked up with Aaron Nell’s team at the beginning of the Cats’ 2018-19 NIHL South One league title-winning season, joining from Edinburgh Capitals, and went on to make 52 appearances in his debut campaign south of the border.

The 21-year-old D-man quickly gained the support of the home faithful after a rapid course of improvement and his desire to put his body on the line.

Plews’ ability to progress as a player throughout last season ultimately helped him win the club’s most improved player award and persuaded player-coach Nell to sign him up for another campaign in Wiltshire.

Discussing the reasons for offering the Kirkcaldy-born player a new deal, Nell said: “Tyler came down from Edinburgh last year and did superbly for us.

“He settled into Swindon really well and really took pride in being a Wildcat, which was great to see.

“The fans got on really well with him and he is a great character to have in the locker room.

“He was my most improved player and he was superb for us, especially in the back end of the season.

“I hope that he can continue with these great performances into the 2019-20 season.

“He plays the body and blocks shots. I think he matured a lot on the ice last season, and I am thrilled to be able to bring him back for another year in Swindon.”

Plews joins fellow defender Stevie Whitfield in signing a new deal at the Link Centre for next season, as well as forwards Chris Jones, Sam Bullas and import Tomasz Malasinski – all of who have recently agreed terms for the next campaign.

After the Scot renewed his deal, Plews expressed his eagerness to return to action already and is excited for the chance to play alongside the Cats’ newest import in the newly-established National League.

He said: “I am absolutely over the moon to be back in Swindon for another year.

“It was a no-brainer for me to come back when Aaron offered me the opportunity too.

“I know I have just gone back to Scotland, but I cannot wait to be back in Swindon this August, see all the boys again and prepare for the new season.

“I feel like last year was a successful season, but we know the upcoming campaign will be tough.

“We need to look to improve on last year, and with the calibre of players we have in Swindon, we can.

“The addition of Tomasz will be massive for us and I cannot wait to play in the same team as him.”

Jim and Sue Power will be sponsoring Plews once again next season.

For player sponsorship information at the club, email sally.price@swindonwildcats.com or call 01793 886857.