Club History and Performance Statistics.

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Founded originally in 2002 and re-established in 2019, the Milton Keynes Lightning have become a stalwart presence in British ice hockey. Based in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, the Lightning currently skate in the National Ice Hockey League (NIHL)—Britain’s second-tier professional league—since the 2019–20 season. Their home, the 2,200-seat Planet Ice Arena Milton Keynes.

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The club’s modern incarnation is actually its second, following a storied first franchise that competed in the top-flight Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) from 2017 to 2019, and dominated the English Premier Ice Hockey League (EPIHL) from 2002 to 2017. The Lightning filled the void left by the departure of the Milton Keynes Kings, who relocated after a dispute with rink operators and briefly became the Solihull MK Kings before disbanding in 2003.

In their debut season they ended up with a second-place finish in the league but a triumphant playoff victory over rivals Peterborough Phantoms. This victory sparked an enduring rivalry as both teams vied for dominance in the EPL. The Lightning captured league championships in 2003–04 and 2004–05, and remained a playoff powerhouse through 2006.

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Currently coached by Tim Wallace, the Milton Keynes Lightning have demonstrated remarkable resilience and consistency at the sharp end of British ice hockey. The team finished last season as runners-up during the regular season, but showed their mettle by clinching the playoff title—further adding to their legacy of big-game success. Their recent history has also featured notable triumphs, including a cup win in 2024. Despite falling short in the 2022 playoffs, where they finished as runners-up, the Lightning have maintained their position as perennial contenders, continually challenging for silverware and thrilling their loyal supporters at Planet Ice Arena.

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Individual performances during the regular season were equally impressive. Ross Venus proved to be a formidable scoring threat, netting 32 goals across 53 games. Creative playmaker Jordan Cownie not only topped the assists chart with 58 in 54 appearances but also led the team in overall points, amassing a remarkable 84 over the campaign. On the defensive side, Jordan Spadafore brought grit and edge to the squad, accumulating the most penalty minutes with a total of 109.

In their most recent playoff triumph, Dillon Lawrence was a pivotal force for the Lightning, appearing in all 8 games and delivering a goal-per-game performance with 8 goals. Much of Lawrence’s scoring success was fuelled by the creative vision of Jordan Cownie, who once again topped the points chart by racking up an impressive 14 assists during the playoff run—cementing his status as the team’s premier playmaker under postseason pressure. Meanwhile, Sean Norris brought an uncompromising physical edge to the squad, leading all players in penalty minutes with a playoff total of 29, ensuring the Lightning remained both relentless and resilient when it mattered most.

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Between the pipes, three goaltenders shared responsibilities throughout the regular season, each contributing their own strengths to the Lightning’s defensive backbone. Will Kerlin took to the ice in 17 games, posting an impressive save percentage of 90.97%. Jordan Hedley was the most frequently called upon, making 37 appearances and recording a reliable 90.33% save percentage. Rounding out the trio, Oliver Booth seized his opportunity in his lone game, delivering a flawless 100% save percentage during his hard-fought minutes.

As the team advanced into the high-stakes environment of the playoffs, the Lightning relied on the steady presence of Jordan Hedley, who suited up for 5 games and maintained a 90.41% save percentage under pressure. Will Kerlin also rose to the challenge, appearing in 4 playoff games and helping secure the championship run with his determined efforts, posting an 85.86% save percentage. This trio’s collective contributions were crucial in reinforcing the Lightning’s defensive fortitude, enabling the team to weather intense postseason battles and ultimately hoist the playoff trophy.

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