Position: Center

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.

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.

Heiks Varpoila

Name: Heiks Varpoila
Position: Centre (C) / Defense (D)
Experience: A couple of years

About:
Heiks Varpoila is a versatile and dedicated player for the Swindon Avalanche B Team, adept at both the center and defense positions. With a passion for hockey that began as a spectator, Heiks love for the game grew even stronger when moving to Swindon finally provided the opportunity to play—a dream that wasn’t possible while living in Portugal or Wales.

A loyal fan of the Florida Panthers, Heiks admires the skill and leadership of Sasha Barkov, whose two-way game inspires his approach on the ice.

Plays: Right-handed

Beyond Hockey:
When not on the ice, Heiks keeps busy with an impressive array of hobbies and responsibilities. From training for an alpine ultramarathon and a 200-mile charity cycle to (badly) playing golf, Heiks embraces challenges with determination. He also serves as the chairman of Cirencester and District Round Table and holds positions on the boards of two housing associations.

Fun Fact:
During his national service, Heiks once managed to sleep through an entire emergency drill—proof that even emergencies can’t disrupt his rest!

Highlight:
Heiks dedication to both hockey and his many pursuits showcases his drive and commitment. His skill, passion, and sense of humor make him a valuable member of the Swindon Avalanche B Team, both on and off the ice.

Chrissy Spalding

Name: Chrissy Spalding
Position: Centre (formerly Left Wing)
Experience: 1 year of playing properly, with prior experience in Learn to Play sessions

About:
Chrissy Spalding is a talented and dedicated center for the Swindon Avalanche B Team. Originally starting as a left winger, Chrissy transitioned to center in June of last year and has embraced the position with enthusiasm and skill.

Her love for hockey began after watching a live game for the first time, captivated by the excitement and energy of the sport. For Chrissy, hockey is unlike any other sport—fun to watch and even more thrilling to play.

Plays: Right-handed

Inspiration:
While Chrissy doesn’t have a favorite team, she draws inspiration from the skill and talent of players like Sidney Crosby, Marc-André Fleury, and Mitch Marner, who exemplify excellence in their roles.

Highlight:
Chrissy’s passion for hockey, combined with her versatility and dedication, makes her a key player on the Swindon Avalanche B Team. Her drive to improve and love for the game continue to inspire her teammates and contribute to the team’s success.

Bradley McMillan

Player Profile: Bradley McMillan

Name: Bradley McMillan
Position: Centre / Winger
Experience: 8 years

About:
Bradley McMillan is a skilled and adaptable forward for the Swindon Avalanche B Team, playing as both a centre and winger. With 8 years of experience, Bradley brings a wealth of knowledge and a love for the game that shines in every match.

His journey into hockey began after watching NHL games on YouTube, where the fast pace and excitement of the sport captured his imagination. While he’s a loyal fan of the Boston Bruins, Bradley has immense respect for Alexander Ovechkin, whom he considers the best player in the game right now.

Plays: Right-handed

Background:
Originally from Bradford, West Yorkshire, Bradley made the move down south for work and decided to join a local hockey team to meet new people and embrace new challenges. His blend of skill and enthusiasm has made him a fantastic addition to the Swindon Avalanche B Team.

As an amusing twist of fate and perhaps an act of “revenge” for James Turner Hague’s infamous shower story, Bradley has been spending time with James’s cousin, turning the team banter into a running joke that keeps everyone laughing.

Highlight:
Bradley’s years of experience, passion for the sport, and positive attitude have made him an integral part of the team. Whether setting up plays or finding the back of the net, Bradley is a key player who continues to make an impact both on and off the ice.