The 34-year-old posted on X: “I am gutted to be leaving my hometown club, not the way any of us wanted to end the season.
“A frustrating one on a personal level and as a club. All the best in the future, and a big thanks to the ones that supported me through this season.”
His exit comes as Swindon Town begin shaping their squad for next season, with a significant number of players currently out of contract following another campaign that ended without promotion.
For many supporters, the news will feel personal. Bodin was not just another signing, but one of Swindon’s own.
The son of former Town defender Paul Bodin, he progressed through the Robins academy before making his senior debut in 2010.
After spells with Torquay United, Bristol Rovers, Preston North End, Oxford United and Burton Albion, he returned to the County Ground last summer in what was widely seen as a homecoming.
There was optimism that the experienced winger could add creativity and leadership to a side targeting a push towards League One.
Our Sports Reporter Ian Howard commented:
“Billy Boden struggled to find the form that he is capable of. We only saw flashes of his talent as he lacked regular starts to build consistency. A home grown talent who the crowd recognised as one of their own. I wish Billy all the best and hope that he finds a club at a suitable level that allows him to finish his playing career without regrets.”
He made an immediate impact with a stoppage-time winner against Shrewsbury Town in August.
Bodin went on to score four goals and register five assists in 34 appearances across all competitions, although the campaign proved inconsistent for both player and club.
Injuries played a significant part.
Having arrived late in pre-season following fitness issues at Burton Albion, Bodin later admitted he spent much of the season “playing catch-up”. A hamstring injury midway through the campaign further disrupted his progress and limited him to nine League Two starts.
Speaking in March, Bodin reflected on the impact of his interrupted pre-season.
“I almost feel like I’ve been playing catch-up all season, to be honest,” he said.
“It’s really frustrating because you’re coming off the bench or you’re playing in reserve games, but you’re never quite at that fitness level and sharpness.”
His farewell message suggests the ending fell short of expectations for both himself and supporters.
Swindon face a significant rebuild this summer, with 18 players out of contract as the club prepares for another League Two campaign.
Ollie Clarke and Lewis Ward are confirmed to remain at the club, while striker Harry Smith has reportedly been offered a new deal.
For Bodin, however, this chapter appears to be closing. While his second spell may not have delivered the return many hoped for, his connection to the town ensured his presence carried added meaning for supporters.
