Milton Keynes Lightning are excited to announce the appointment of Karl Montford as the new Match Night DJ for the 2025/26 season. A familiar face to many in the stands, Karl has been part of the Lightning family for years as a passionate volunteer, and now steps up to take the reins of the all-important match night soundtrack.
Karl brings with him a wealth of DJ experience and a deep-rooted connection to the sport. He began DJing when his son Nathaniel started playing ice hockey at the age of 12, building on earlier experience from school, charity, and New Year’s Eve parties — all sparked by his impressive vinyl collection.
His involvement in local hockey grew when he was invited by Dave Fairhurst to DJ for the MK Thunder at the temporary rink in the old Sainsbury’s during the redevelopment of Planet Ice. One of Karl’s proudest moments was providing the soundtrack to the 24-hour charity game in 2014 in honour of Kris Legard — a memorable and emotional event for the whole hockey community.
Karl has previously stepped in as DJ for MK Lightning and has long been part of the Match Night team, serving as a goal judge and most recognisably perched above Block 14 on the DJ stairs.
“I know it will be hard to carry on from Bertie,” said Karl, “but I hope to create a good vibe for the fans and the team. I’ve always enjoyed building an atmosphere that lifts everyone — and I can’t wait to bring that energy to Lightning this season.”
MK Lightning would like to thank Bertie once again for his many years of creating the soundtrack to so many incredible nights at Planet Ice – and welcome Karl into this exciting new role. We can’t wait to hear Karl playing the iconic Lightning tracks, and building the well known electric atmosphere in the fortress of Planet Ice Milton Keynes.
