Milton Keynes Lightning are delighted to announce the signing of rising homegrown talent Lewis Conroy for the 2025/26 NIHL National season. The 16-year-old forward makes the step up after several standout seasons in the Milton Keynes Storm junior programme and will continue to train and compete with the MK U19s and MK Thunder alongside his Lightning commitments.
Conroy has been a dominant force throughout his time in the Storm system, consistently leading his age group in goals and overall impact. His ability to read the game, shoot with power and precision, and influence play on both sides of the puck has made him a player to watch for several years.
What truly sets Lewis apart, however, is his maturity on the ice. For the past two seasons, he has been playing up an age group with the MK Storm U19s, often against players two or three years older, and he still delivered standout performances.
Despite his youth, he brought size, speed, and physicality to every shift, more than holding his own and regularly influencing games. In parallel, his numbers at both U16s and U19s were nothing short of sensational, being top scorer in both teams:
43 goals and 7 assists in 15 games for the MK U16s
31 goals and 14 assists in 15 games for the MK U19s
He’s also gained international experience, representing England at the Riga Hockey Cup in April, where he competed against top junior players from across Europe, another key milestone in his development.
In preparation for the transition to senior hockey, Lewis has already been training with MK Thunder throughout the 2024/25 and joined MK Lightning training during the latter stages of last season.
Reflecting on his move into the Lightning squad, Conroy said:
“Since I started playing hockey in MK, I’ve always dreamt of playing for MK Lightning. I am thankful for the opportunity and look forward to being part of the team.”
MK Lightning Head Coach Tim Wallace is confident about what Conroy brings:
“Lewis Conroy is a rare player with the size, tools, and attitude to go far in this game. He has the potential to be something special, and we’re really looking forward to working with him. With continued development, we’re confident Lewis can become a key part of the Lightning and beyond.”
Director Tom Roberts, who has closely followed Lewis’ journey from the grassroots level, added:
“Over the past five years, I’ve spent a great deal of time watching our junior teams, and Lewis has been a standout player from the very beginning. As he’s progressed, he’s become stronger, faster, and has added real physicality to his game. His shooting ability and on-ice presence have made him an impactful player not only within his own age group but also at the level above. I’m absolutely delighted that we’ve brought Lewis into the Lightning organisation this year, and we’ll be fully supporting his continued development. A special thank you as well to his parents, who have been an absolute pleasure to get to know over the years.”
Lewis will wear the number 22 jersey, which is available from to Own and Loan now.
Please email dave@b2promodesign.com to Own and Loan stating what jersey you would like – Light, Dark, Warm-up or any!
Find out about supporting the team and Sponsoring a Player here
Check the MK Lightning Roster here
For more information and updates, visit www.mk-lightning.co.uk
