Lightning extend coach Russell's contract

The club has made huge strides both on and off the ice during this campaign and has become increasingly involved in the Milton Keynes community and surrounding areas. The extension to Pete’s contract will allow Lightning to continue to build for the future, as well as focus on claiming on-ice success.

“I’m delighted to be further extending my stay with the Lightning, an organisation I believe is on the right track to success and supported by an incredible fanbase,” said Russell, shortly after signing his new deal.

“As a young family, we’ve moved into the area and we’ve begun to put down our roots. We love living in the Milton Keynes area and want to be part of a thriving community for many years to come.

“I’m pleased with what we have achieved so far and the groundwork we’ve laid down, but I know there’s still plenty more to come from the club and the team. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for us together.”

Russell’s first season in charge of the Lightning saw MK reach the EPIHL Cup semi-finals and top the table at times, with an exciting blend of young and experienced players bringing huge crowds to the Milton Keynes arena each week.

“I couldn’t be happier that Pete is returning to the club, especially on a multi-year deal,” said Planet Ice’s John Neville.

“In the short time he’s been part of the Lightning family, we’ve taken huge strides forward as an organisation - a lot of which is down to Pete’s drive and determination to make us the best we possibly can be.

“The multi-year deal will allow us to build upon the great foundation put down over the past season. I have no doubt that Pete is the right man to lead us to success and we’ll continue to offer him all the support he and the team need in delivering silverware to the club.

“I’m sure Lightning fans will be as pleased as I am that Pete will be returning to coach the team next season” added Dave Bunyan, Milton Keynes Lightning Supporters’ Club chairman.

“We’ve been treated to some great hockey and there’s huge positivity surrounding the club that will only increase as time goes on. Working together and with the help of our supportive fan base, I believe we can build something that will be the envy of many across the league.”