The head coach had a hugely successful spell in charge previously

Popular coach Pete Russell has agreed to return to the helm at MK Lightning, seven years after his previous spell.

The Scot previously enjoyed a hugely successful spell behind the bench in Milton Keynes, guiding Lightning through one of the most successful periods in the club’s history. During his previous tenure 2015-2018, Russell helped establish MK as a major force in British ice hockey, leading the team to Cup and Playoff victories in 16/17 and overseeing the transition into the Elite Ice Hockey League.

Since his departure in 2018, he has taken charge of Great Britain, while also working in Germany with clubs including EHC Freiburg, Ravensburg Towerstars and Augsburger Panther.

He will take up the role as head coach and Director of Hockey.

“I am thrilled to return to a club that holds such a special place in my heart,” Russell said. “My time and journey away has provided me with invaluable experiences, many lessons both good and bad, and insights that I am eager to bring back to this team and community.

“This commitment also provides me with the invaluable opportunity to live at home with my family and to once again embark on a new hockey journey together.

“I look forward to working with our players, our staff, fostering our growth, and continuing to build on the strong foundation that has always defined our club.

“Together, we will all strive for success and aim to create more memorable moments for our great MKL fans.”

MK Lightning Director Tom Roberts also welcomed Russell back to the club, adding: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Pete back to Milton Keynes. He knows this club, he knows our fans, and he understands exactly what it takes to build a successful team here.

“Since leaving the UK he has gained tremendous experience coaching internationally and in Germany, and we believe that knowledge and leadership will be hugely valuable as we continue developing the next chapter of MK Lightning.

“Pete’s passion for the game and his commitment to developing players makes him the perfect person to lead our team into the 2026/27 season and beyond.”

Russell was not in charge of the weekend’s fixtures though, with interim boss Lewis Christie continuing to lead the side into the Playoffs with a 4-3 win over Romford Raiders on Friday before a frantic 7-5 win on the road against Solent Sharks.

Lightning now know their Playoff opponents too. They will face Hull Seahawks on 28/3 (a), and 29/3 (h). They will then take on Telford Tigers on 4/4 (h) and 5/4 (a) before playing Leeds Knights on 11/4 (h) and 12/4 (a).