RUSSIAN-BORN forward Vanya Antonov has rejoined Bracknell Bees for the 2018/19 season.

The 21-year-old left Bees in 2016 with an excellent record of 24 goals and 41 assists from his 51 games .

He said: “Leaving Bracknell was a tough choice, but I wanted to test myself in a different club.

“I can see how much the organisation has changed and really improved over the last year.

“This year when Doug (Sheppard) signed as coach I thought straight away it was a move in the right direction as I could see the club had the future in mind.”

He continued: “It fits perfectly with my commitments outside of hockey at university.

“I’m pleased to be teaming up with Doug again and very excited to be coming back to Bracknell.

“I hope I can contribute to bringing success and a few trophies to the club.”

Meanwhile, Reading-born defenceman, Harvey Stead, has also re-signed for Bees next season.

However, outstanding netminder Alex Mettam has left the club after five seasons at the club.

Mettam made 189 appearances for Bees since joining from Milton Keynes Lightning at the start of the 2013/14 season.