Jordan Cownie – Forward (#95)

One of the most exciting British forwards in the league, Jordan Cownie has become the heartbeat of the Lightning attack. In the 2024/25 season, he exploded for 84 points in 54 games, notching 26 goals and 58 assists to finish among the NIHL’s top scorers. Cownie’s speed and agility make him dangerous in transition, while his vision allows him to unlock defences and bring his teammates into the play. Just as effective carrying the puck as he is finishing off chances, he consistently delivers in the big moments and thrives under pressure. With his ability to dictate the pace of a game, Cownie is a player every opposition coach circles on the pre-game scouting report.

View from the Coach “Jordan is one of the most dangerous offensive players in the league. His pace and vision set him apart, and he’s a real leader for us offensively,” said Tim Wallace.

Quick Facts Age: 28 | Nationality: English | Shoots: Left 2024/25 Stats (NIHL National, MK Lightning): 54 GP – 26 G – 58 A – 84 PTS Style: Dynamic playmaker with elite speed and vision One to watch: The offensive catalyst who can change a game in an instant"

Owen Griffiths is no stranger to Milton Keynes, having iced here during the 2018–2019 Elite League campaign (2018–2019 • EIHL • Milton Keynes Lightning: GP 59, G–A–P 4–12–16, PIM 10). Now back in Swindon colours, he offers a smart, presence honed across years in the top flight with Guildford and Manchester. With over 700 senior appearances to his name (career totals: GP 744, G 166, A 236, P 402, PIM 209), Griffiths brings composure and work rate.

Aaron Nell remains the heartbeat of Swindon hockey. Player-coach, scorer, and tactician, he continues to lead by example deep into his career. Few in the NIHL can match his consistency: during 2022–2023 he posted GP 55, G–A–P 48–48–96, PIM 65. With over 1,300 career points (career totals: GP 983, G 654, A 663, P 1317, PIM 608), Nell’s presence on the puck remains the ultimate measuring stick for any defence that faces him. Aaron has recently announced his retirement at the end of this season from playing, but will continue to coach and be the GM of the Wildcats. Photo credit Kat Medcraft - Wildcats Media

Fresh from collegiate and European hockey, Tyler Watkins has adapted fast to British ice. The American forward’s transition from Union College to Hungary’s Erste Liga last season showed he can produce wherever he plays (2024–2025 • Erste Liga • Dunaújvárosi Acélbikák: GP 35, G–A–P 13–23–36, PIM 2). Now in the NIHL, his 11 points from eight starts underline a player with pace, touch and vision. Watkins looks every inch the import capable of igniting Swindon’s forward lines this autumn.

Get ready for one of the most fun nights in the MK Lightning calendar — our Halloween Game on Sunday 2nd November as we take on the Sheffield Steeldogs!

🕠 Face Off: 5:30pm — perfect for our younger fans!
The team will be hitting the ice in their special Halloween jerseys, so make sure you come in your best fancy dress too!

It’s set to be a frightfully good night of hockey and Halloween fun — don’t miss it!

🎟️ Tickets available now: CLICK HERE