BEN O'CONNOR BECOMES A SWINDON WILDCAT

Ben arrives in Swindon after a stellar professional career which has seen him play around the world, most recently of the Dundee Stars in the EIHL.

The 36-year-old defenceman is widely regarded as one of the best British players of his generation, competing in four GB tournaments in the top pool of international ice hockey, on his way to over 70 international caps.

Domestically, his career in the UK has seen him win two EIHL championships, one EIHL playoff and one EIHL cup competition. His career has also seen him ice in France, Canada, Kazakhstan, Sweden, and Romania.

Speaking exclusively to swindonwildcats.com Ben had the following to say after confirming his move to Swindon.

“I have known Aaron and Steve my whole career and we have been in touch before. Being based in Guildford there a lot of teams around the area, but my first call was to Aaron. I have had friends who have played in Swindon before, and they always say nothing but good things. I have a lot of friends in the league who speak highly about how the club is ran and the systems Aaron put in place. You see it every year that they are up there contending for trophies and it was something I want to be a part of.

For those who have not seen me play before, I am an offensive defenceman who makes a good first pass. I like the forwards to find space and I will look to find them. Since I was 18 years old I have ran the power-play for my teams and internationally and they have always been successful. At the same time, I must do my job at the back of the ice and do your job as a defenceman as well.

I have been doing this since the day I could walk; I still love the game, and it is time for my family to come first. My children are getting older, and I want to be around. Coming to Swindon allows me to do this and I just cannot wait to get going.”

After a professional career like Ben has had, he talked about the adjustment he will face coming to the National league with excitement.

“The adjustment is going to be exciting, when I played in the Covid series I enjoyed my time and loved playing with so many British players and a couple of imports. It was a small series but I am looking forward to seeing what the league is like and contributing to bringing trophies back to Swindon.

I’ve played hockey all over the world and I want to bring those experiences to the Wildcats. Hopefully, my experiences can rub off on my teammates and contribute us to any success next year.

Playing in the National league will be fun, and I have got great memories of playing in Swindon before when I was a kid, staying across the road and playing out the back of the Link on the grass and I am just looking forward to getting started.

Before linking up in Swindon, Ben will be competing for Team GB from this weekend for the final time. Talking about the upcoming world championships, Ben added:

I’ve been a part of GB for 17 years now and I’ve been in the highs and lows. What we’ve done is something I’ve been proud of and I never take for granted. Hopefully we can send the boys back to Pool A with a Gold Medal and start the summer off rightly!”

Lastly, he had the following message for the Cats fans!

“The fans are well known for being loud and there in numbers. I watch the highlights and I can see how loud and passionate they are, I just can’t wait to meet you all in September and hopefully get the job done next year!”