Season: 2024 Season
Paul Best
Paul Best is the experienced and strategic Bench Coach for the Swindon Avalanche B Team. With a sharp eye for the game and a calm presence behind the bench, Paul plays a vital role in ensuring the team stays focused and ready to thrive on game day.
Whether it’s offering tactical advice, making in-the-moment adjustments, or providing motivation when it’s needed most, Paul’s expertise is an invaluable asset to the team. His dedication to supporting the players and his passion for the sport make him a key figure in the Avalanche’s success.
Paul’s experience and strategic approach help the team navigate the highs and lows of competition, ensuring they always give their best on 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.
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.
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.