League: Southern Development Cup 2025
Steven Stroud
Name: Steven Stroud
Position: Winger / Center
Experience: 3 years with the Swindon Spitfires, returned in November 2024 after a 3-year gap
About:
Steven Stroud is a skilled and passionate forward for the Swindon Avalanche B Team, capable of playing both winger and center positions. After an impressive 3 years with the Swindon Spitfires, Steven took a break but made a strong return to hockey in November 2024, reigniting his love for the game.
Inspired to start hockey by friends and the legendary Mighty Ducks films, Steven admires the creativity and skill of big NHL players. His hockey idols include Sidney Crosby of the Pittsburgh Penguins, Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers, and Connor Bedard of the Chicago Blackhawks, all of whom fuel his drive to improve and excel on the ice.
Plays: Right-handed
Beyond Hockey:
Steven believes hockey is more than just a sport—it’s a great way to stay fit, connect with friends, and enjoy the thrill of the game. He wishes for more ice time but values every moment spent on the rink with his teammates.
Highlight:
With his skill, passion, and team spirit, Steven is a valuable member of the Swindon Avalanche B Team. His creativity and dedication make him a key player who continues to inspire those around him.
Jake East-Woods
Name: Jake East-Woods
Position: Wing
Experience: 8 months
About:
Jake East-Wood is a determined and competitive winger for the Swindon Avalanche B Team. Having started his hockey journey just 8 months ago, Jake has already demonstrated a strong drive to excel and a passion for the game. His competitive spirit pushes him to constantly improve and give his best effort every time he steps onto the ice.
Inspired by the Mighty Ducks films as a child, Jake’s love for hockey began with the excitement and teamwork showcased in the series. A loyal fan of the Anaheim Ducks, Jake channels that same energy and dedication into his own game.
Plays: Right-handed
Highlight:
Jake’s competitive nature and enthusiasm for hockey make him a valuable member of the Swindon Avalanche B Team. His passion for the sport and his drive to improve contribute to the team’s energy and success.
Louis Angel
Name: Louis Angel
Number: 20
Position: Winger
Experience:
Louis spent three years of his teens playing bandy and ice hockey on frozen lakes and football pitches in Sweden. After joining Swindon’s Adult Learn to Play program in February 2024, he became a proud member of the Swindon Avalanche B Team in January 2025.
About:
For Louis Angel, hockey isn’t just a sport; it’s part of a bigger plan. Inspired by the iconic Happy Gilmore, Louis took up hockey not only for the thrill of skating and slapshots but to channel that chaotic, unhinged energy to one day dominate the golf course. His tongue-in-cheek approach to hockey reflects his unique personality, but behind the humor lies a commitment to mastering the game and contributing to the team’s success.
Plays: Left-handed
Summary:
Louis brings a mix of passion, humor, and dedication to the Swindon Avalanche B Team. He’s focused on improving every session, helping the team succeed, and keeping spirits high with his lighthearted personality. With a background in bandy and ice hockey, he’s ready to make an impact on the ice while still planning his ultimate takeover of the PGA Tour—eventually.
Highlight:
Louis’s ability to balance hard work and humor makes him a unique and valuable member of the Avalanche. Whether it’s a slapshot or a quick quip, he’s always ready to leave his mark on the game.
Tom Rossiter
Player Profile: Tom Rossiter
Name: Tom Rossitter
Position: Defenseman (D)
Experience: 3 years
About:
Tom Rossiter is a solid and dependable defenseman for the Swindon Avalanche B Team, with 3 years of experience on the ice. His journey into ice hockey began during his time living in Canada, where he was drawn to the sport in a country where football takes a backseat.
A devoted fan of the Edmonton Oilers, Tom admires the skill and brilliance of Cale Makar, whose dynamic play inspires his game. As a right-handed player, Tom’s steady presence on defense provides a strong backbone for the team’s efforts.
Plays: Right-handed
Beyond Hockey:
Tom’s passion for hockey extends to his family, with all three of his sons playing for the Swindon Academy. His love for the game and dedication to fostering the sport within his family highlight his commitment to the hockey community.
Highlight:
Tom’s experience, passion, and family connection to hockey make him a valued member of the Swindon Avalanche B Team. His leadership and defensive skills are key to the team’s success and growth on and off the ice.
James Turner Hague
Name: James Turner Hague
Position: Left / Right Wing
Experience: 6 years
About:
James Turner Hague is a versatile winger for the Swindon Avalanche B Team, adept at playing both the left and right sides. His hockey journey began during an 18-month stay in Canada, where a friend convinced him to give the sport a try. Since then, James has embraced the game with passion and determination, becoming a valuable asset to the team.
Plays: Right-handed
Beyond Hockey:
Off the ice, James is a keen golfer who enjoys spending time on the greens as much as the rink. Known for his humor and camaraderie, James is always a source of laughs within the team. One of his most memorable—and family-friendly—stories involves sharing a shower with Brad Macmillan’s mum, a tale that never fails to get a chuckle from his teammates.
Highlight:
James’s enthusiasm for hockey, combined with his skill and sense of humor, makes him a key part of the Swindon Avalanche B Team. His passion for the game and easygoing nature help bring the team together, both on and off the ice.
Zoë Gurnah
Name: Zoë Gurnah
Position: Winger
Experience: Since early 2024
About:
Zoë Gurnah is an agile and determined winger for the Swindon Avalanche B Team. Having started her hockey journey in early 2024, Zoë has quickly developed into a key part of the team’s offensive lineup, bringing energy and precision to every game.
A fan of both the Seattle Kraken and the Edmonton Oilers, Zoë draws inspiration from their fast-paced and exciting styles of play. As a left-handed player, she brings a unique dynamic to the team’s attack.
Plays: Left-handed
Hobbies:
Off the ice, Zoë enjoys golf and figure skating, which complement her skills and balance on the rink. Her passion for staying active and taking on new challenges reflects her commitment both on and off the ice.
Highlight:
Zoë’s blend of speed, skill, and determination makes her a standout member of the Swindon Avalanche B Team. Her dedication to improving and love for the game inspire her teammates and help drive the team forward.
Vinny Bradbury
Player Profile: Vinny Bradbury (#71)
Name: Vinny Bradbury
Position: Forward (Right Wing / Centre)
Experience: Since January 28, 2024
About:
Vinny Bradbury is a passionate and dedicated forward for the Swindon Avalanche B Team. Primarily playing as a right winger, Vinny has recently discovered a love for playing center, showcasing his adaptability and eagerness to learn new aspects of the game.
Inspired to try ice hockey before it was “too late,” Vinny finally took the plunge into the sport and has never looked back. His enthusiasm and determination to improve make him a valuable part of the team. A fan of the New York Islanders, Vinny also admires NHL superstar Leon Draisaitl for his incredible skill and playmaking abilities.
Plays: Right-handed
Highlight:
Although relatively new to hockey, Vinny’s passion for the game and commitment to personal growth have already made an impression on the team. His energy and willingness to embrace challenges both on and off the ice make him a fantastic addition to the Swindon Avalanche B Team.
Stuart Girdler
Name: Stuart Girdler
Position: Defenseman (Left Side)
Experience: Started after learning to skate and inspired by watching a German team play
About:
Stuart Girdler is a steady and reliable defenseman for the Swindon Avalanche B Team, playing on the left side. His journey into hockey began after learning to skate and being inspired by the skill and intensity of a German team he watched following a skating session. That moment sparked a love for the sport that continues to grow.
While Stuart isn’t a follower of the NHL, he brings his own unique passion and enthusiasm to the ice. His right-handed play and focus on defense make him an essential part of the team’s back line.
Plays: Right-handed
Beyond Hockey:
Outside of hockey, Stuart leads an active and adventurous lifestyle. He’s an avid road cyclist, a sub-aqua instructor, and always eager for a new challenge. His commitment to staying fit and active directly translates to his strong presence on the ice.
Highlight:
Stuart’s determination, athleticism, and defensive skills make him a valuable member of the Swindon Avalanche B Team. His versatility and love for the game inspire those around him, both on and off the rink.