News

Aaron Nell to call time on Swindon Wildcats playing career

By James Messenger

Posted on 16th October 2025

Photo credit: Ryan Ainscow

Swindon Wildcats player/head coach Aaron Nell will hang up his skates at the end of the season, the club have confirmed.

An integral part of the Wildcats organisation for 17 years, Nell has demonstrated leadership on and off the ice.

He helped the club to their first pieces of silverware since the 2000/01 season when they were crowned winners of the Autumn Cup and National Cup during their first season in the National League.

The following season, he helped the Wildcats top the regular season table, clinching the league title.

The club say his “commitment, passion and leadership have helped shape the club’s identity and success over the past decade”.

A testimonial/retirement game has been scheduled for April 2026, celebrating Nell’s outstanding career.

‘An incredible honour’

Nell will continue to serve as the club’s head coach and general manager, guiding the next generation of players and driving the club forward into an exciting new chapter.

“It’s been an incredible honour to play for the Swindon Wildcats and to represent this club, town and fanbase,” Nell said.

“Hockey has been my life for as long as I can remember, and while it’s the right time for me to step away from playing, I’m excited to continue leading the team from behind the bench and focusing fully on coaching.”