Milton Keynes Lightning are delighted to announce the signing of defenceman Archie Hazeldine for the 2026/27 season.
The 21-year-old Nottingham native joins the Lightning following a season with Coventry Blaze in the Elite Ice Hockey League, where he continued to establish himself as one of the brightest young British defensive prospects in the game. Hazeldine iced in 45 EIHL games during the 2025/26 campaign, recording seven assists, while also featuring in 13 Challenge Cup games where he posted two points.
Standing at 6’3” and shooting right, Hazeldine brings size, mobility and versatility to the Lightning blue line, alongside a strong pedigree developed through the Great Britain junior programme, and currently with the Senior Men’s Team in Switzerland. Despite his young age, he already possesses valuable experience competing at the highest level of UK hockey.
Speaking on his move to Milton Keynes, Hazeldine said:
“I’m really looking forward to joining MK next season, I’ve heard great things about the organisation and the fans so when Pete called about the opportunity to come and play, I was only going to accept as I believe it is the best place to continue my development.”
Lightning Head Coach Pete Russell was equally pleased to secure the talented defenceman’s signature.
“I’m delighted to have Archie Hazeldine on the team. Archie comes to us from Coventry, he’s a Nottingham native with an extensive GB Juniors background, and he brings exactly the profile we look for, an offensive mindset, a big body, right shot, and the ability to play in all situations. I’m looking forward to working with Archie”
Hazeldine’s arrival is another important addition for the Lightning as preparations continue for the 2026/27 campaign, with the club adding a young, ambitious player eager to continue his development and make an impact in Milton Keynes.
Everyone at Milton Keynes Lightning would like to welcome Archie to the club and we look forward to seeing him on the ice at Planet Ice MK this season.
Archie will wear the number 13 jersey for the 2026/27 season. Supporters will have the opportunity to Own and Loan his jersey from 7pm on Friday when the news is announced publicly by contacting dave@b2promodesign.com, stating the jersey type – Light, Dark, Warm-Up or any.
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For more information and updates, visit www.mk-lightning.co.uk
