League: Southern Development Cup 2025

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.

Shannon Mercer

Player Profile: Shannon Mercer (#1)

Name: Shannon Mercer
Position: Goalie (#1)
Experience: 1 year as a player, 3 years as a goalie

About:
Shannon Mercer is the fearless and dependable goalie for the Swindon Avalanche B Team. Originally starting as a player, Shannon’s journey into the crease began after breaking a cheekbone and splitting an eyebrow during play. Embracing the role of a goalie with a “nothing left to lose” attitude, Shannon has become a key figure in the team’s defense, thriving under the pressure that comes with guarding the net.

Inspiration:
As a devoted fan of the Vancouver Canucks, Shannon draws inspiration from Thatcher Demko, whose poise and skill serve as a benchmark for excellence in the crease.

Plays: Left-hand catcher

Highlight:
Shannon’s combination of resilience, determination, and quick reflexes makes them an invaluable part of the Swindon Avalanche B Team. Whether making game-changing saves or leading by example with fearless play, Shannon is a cornerstone of the team’s success.

Paul Bizley

Name: Paul Bizley
Position: Forward (Currently trying out Right Wing)
Experience:

  • Started skating: May 2024
  • Began Learn to Play: September 2024
  • Joined the Avalanche: December 2024
  • First game: December 29, 2024

About:
Paul Bizley is a hardworking and competitive forward for the Swindon Avalanche B Team. Inspired by hockey’s speed, skill, and excitement, Paul took the leap into the sport after years of admiration. Following the NIHL Final Four weekend in 2024, he finally decided to buy a pair of skates and hasn’t looked back since.

Paul is motivated not only by his passion for hockey but also by his desire to stay fit for work and to inspire his nephews, showing them that you can achieve anything you set your mind to. As someone who loves competing (and despises every other form of cardio), hockey has become the perfect outlet for his energy and drive.

Hockey Inspirations:
Paul admires a wide variety of hockey players and figures, including:

  • Jack O’Callahan (USA)
  • Happy Gilmore (🤣)
  • Wayne Gretzky (“The Great One”)
  • Chris Nilan
  • Connor McDavid
  • A.J. Galante
  • Lee Bonner
  • Jan Kostal
  • Jake Bricknell
  • Steven Stroud

Plays: Left-handed

Beyond Hockey:
Paul describes scoring his first goal as “better than Christmas,” a testament to his love for the game and his determination to make an impact on the ice. Off the rink, Paul is known for being an incredibly polite and supportive teammate, always bringing a positive attitude to the team.

Highlight:
Paul’s journey into hockey and his passion for the sport reflect his determination and enthusiasm. His competitive nature, strong work ethic, and friendly demeanor make him not only a great player but also a fantastic teammate who contributes to the positive spirit of the Swindon Avalanche B Team.

Mo Delaney

Name: Mo Delaney
Position: Goalie
Experience: 2 years

About:
Mo Delaney is a talented and dedicated goalie for the Swindon Avalanche B Team, with two years of experience in the crease. Inspired to play after watching the Winter Olympics, Mo was captivated by the skill and excitement of ice hockey, sparking a passion that continues to grow.

A fan of the Seattle Kraken, Mo looks up to Joey Daccord, whose composure and talent in goal provide constant motivation. With quick reflexes and sharp focus, Mo is a dependable presence between the pipes.

Plays: Right-handed

Beyond Hockey:
In addition to excelling on the ice, Mo also plays futsal at an elite level, proudly representing England. Balancing two demanding sports showcases Mo’s incredible athleticism and determination.

Highlight:
Mo’s commitment to both hockey and futsal demonstrates a unique blend of talent and dedication. Her contributions in goal make her a vital part of the Swindon Avalanche B Team, where she continues to inspire teammates with her skill and passion for the game.

Mike Wiodarcryk

Name: Mike Wlodarczyk
Position: Defense
Experience: Since I could walk

About:
Mike Wlodarczyk is a seasoned and passionate defenseman for the Swindon Avalanche B Team. With a lifelong connection to hockey, Mike has been skating and playing since he could walk, making the sport an integral part of his life.

Inspired by the Mighty Ducks movie as a child, Mike developed a deep love for the game and its teamwork and excitement. A proud fan of Jaromír Jágr and the Pittsburgh Penguins, Mike brings the same grit and determination to the ice as his hockey idols.

Plays: Left-handed

Highlight:
Mike’s years of experience, love for the game, and solid defensive skills make him an invaluable part of the Swindon Avalanche B Team. His passion for hockey and dedication to his role inspire teammates and set the tone for strong team play.

Lewis Davies

Name: Lewis Davies
Position: Defenseman
Experience: Since 2023

About:
Lewis Davies is a strong and dependable defenseman for the Swindon Avalanche B Team. Inspired by watching a friend play for the Bristol Pirates, Tom decided to step onto the ice himself in 2023, transitioning from a spectator to a dedicated player.

A loyal fan of the Calgary Flames, Lewis looks up to standout defensemen McKenzie Weegar and Rasmus Andersson, drawing inspiration from their skill and poise on the ice. Starting hockey and skating at the same time, Lewis has quickly developed into a key figure in the team’s defensive lineup.

Plays: Right-handed

Beyond Hockey:
Lewis’s journey into hockey followed a decade of playing rugby, where he built the toughness and teamwork that now translate to his defensive role. His athletic background and commitment to improving his skills make him a vital part of the team’s success.

Highlight:
Lewis’s quick adaptation to hockey, combined with his passion and defensive abilities, has made him an integral member of the Swindon Avalanche B Team. His determination and love for the game inspire both teammates and fans alike.

Ladislav Kollár

Player Profile: Ladislav Kollár

Name: Ladislav Kollár
Position: Defender with a Forward’s Heart ❤️
Experience: 10 months

About:
Ladislav Kollár is a passionate and hardworking defender for the Swindon Avalanche B Team, bringing a forward’s energy and determination to his role on the blue line. Despite being relatively new to hockey with 10 months of experience, Ladislav’s dedication and love for the game are clear every time he steps onto the ice. Known for his powerful slapshot from the blue line, he’s a key player in the team’s offensive and defensive efforts.

Inspiration:
Ladislav’s hockey journey was inspired by a personal goal to lose weight, proving his determination and drive to improve himself both on and off the ice. A loyal fan of the Detroit Red Wings, Ladislav admires the late Pavel Demitra, whose legacy and talent inspire him to give his all to the game.

Plays: Left-handed

Beyond Hockey:
When Ladislav isn’t on the ice, he enjoys fitness, riding motorbikes, and spending time with his favorite animals—dogs. His hobbies and active lifestyle reflect his dynamic personality and love for challenges.

Highlight:
Ladislav’s booming slapshot and forward-thinking playstyle make him a valuable member of the Swindon Avalanche B Team. His passion for hockey, combined with his unique journey and positive attitude, inspire teammates and contribute to the team’s success.

Jamie Cooper

Name: Jamie Daniel Cooper
Position: Left Wing
Experience: 3 years

About:
Jamie Daniel Cooper is a skilled and passionate left winger for the Swindon Avalanche B Team. With three years of experience, Jamie has become a dynamic presence on the ice, combining speed and precision to support his team.

Introduced to hockey by his brother, Jamie quickly fell in love with the game and has been dedicated to improving ever since. A loyal fan of the New Jersey Devils, Jamie admires Nico Hischier for his leadership and all-around playmaking abilities.

Plays: Right-handed
Country Flag: 🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Highlight:
Jamie’s enthusiasm for the sport and his commitment to growth make him a valuable asset to the Swindon Avalanche B Team. His passion for hockey shines in every game, inspiring teammates and contributing to the team’s success.