Swindon Wildcats captain nears time to hang up his ice skates
"After 16 incredible seasons with the Swindon Wildcats, the time feels right for me to step away from playing at the end of the season"
Sam 'Bully' Bullas, the captain of the Swindon Wildcats, is to retire this weekend after an illustrious career spanning 16 years, during which he played a record 876 games for the club.
Bullas hopes to end his career by winning the National Ice Hockey League play-offs with the Swindon Wildcats, describing it as "the icing on the cake" of his extensive career.
He's also becoming a dad for the first time and looks forward to starting his family life.
He said he will miss being around the team and fans, but is eager to focus on this new chapter of his life.
In a heartfelt message to fans, he reflected on his time with the Wildcats, expressing immense pride and gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of the club, as well as for the support shown by fans, teammates, and the club's management.
Player-coach Aaron Nell, also marking his retirement at the season's end, has contributed significantly to the team, playing 805 games and holding the title of the highest scorer in the club's history.
Bullas and Nell's departure marks a significant transition for the Swindon Wildcats as they strive for glory in the upcoming play-offs.
'It has been a huge honour'
Bullas' full statement read back in March: "After 16 incredible seasons with the Swindon Wildcats, the time feels right for me to step away from playing at the end of the season. This decision was made at the start of the season, and while it has not been an easy one, I know it is the right time for me and my family, especially with Summer and I expecting our first child in just a few weeks. I know my time and focus will soon be taken up by an exciting new chapter in our lives.
"It has been a huge honour to wear the Wildcats jersey for so many years, and an even greater honour to captain this team. To lead this club has meant so much to me, and I am incredibly proud of everything we have achieved together. To sign off as league champions makes it even more special, and hopefully there is still one more trophy for us to win before I finally hang them up.
"I want to say a heartfelt thank you to Steve, Aaron, the Nell family, and Ryan Aldridge for bringing me to Swindon all those years ago and giving me the opportunity to be part of this club. From day one, I’ve seen how professional this club is, and that is a huge credit to everyone behind the scenes. The Wildcats have become my family away from home, and I will always be grateful for the faith, support, and care they have shown me throughout my time here.
"I have been lucky enough to share the ice with so many amazing teammates over the years, and I’ve played alongside some absolute beauties. The friendships, memories, and moments we have created together will stay with me forever, and without doubt, that is what I will miss the most.
"A huge thank you also goes to the fans, volunteers and sponsors. Your support, passion, and loyalty have meant everything to me throughout my time here. I truly believe Wildcats fans are the best in the league, and there simply wouldn’t be a club without the fans, volunteers and sponsors who give so much to it. It has always been a privilege to play in front of you all.
"I also want to thank my family for everything they have done for me throughout my career, especially my mum and my late father. They took me all over the country to play hockey and gave me the chance to have the amazing career I’ve had. My mum has been there every step of the way, and I will never be able to thank her enough for all of the love, support and sacrifices she has made for me.
"The Swindon Wildcats will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will always look back on my time here with nothing but pride, gratitude, and love for this club."