After an illustrious career spanning over 16 years, Lewis Christie #66 is officially announcing his retirement from professional hockey. Christie, a stalwart defenceman for the Milton Keynes Lightning since 2008, has been a central figure in the team, epitomising leadership and dedication on and off the ice. Lewy will play his last home game on the 20th April 2024, MK Lightning vs Raiders.
Christie began his professional career with the Edinburgh capitals and guessed for the Dundee Stars in the 2002-03 season before playing for multiple teams, including the Edinburgh Capitals and Fife flyers and the Belfast Giants. However, it was with the Milton Keynes Lightning where he truly made his mark. Joining Lightning in 2008, Christie quickly became known for his resilience, strategic gameplay, and profound understanding of the game.
Elected as Team Captain by his teammates in the 2022-23 season, Christie’s leadership was instrumental in guiding the Lightning to a National Cup victory in 2024. His final season was a testament to his career-long dedication and passion for the sport. Notably, Christie made a record 621 appearances in a Milton Keynes Lightning jersey, the most in the team’s history, underscoring his loyalty and significance to the club.
Over the years, Christie has also represented Great Britain at various junior levels, bringing pride to his national team with commendable performances at both the U18 and U20 World Junior Championships.
Reflecting on his career, Lewy said “I always knew this day would come where I would hang up my skates, however it does not make this announcement easier. It is time for me to step down and allow the younger generation to take over, we are lucky to have such young talented players entering the league and I look forward to seeing these guys enjoy the career I have been able too.
I can’t thank Milton Keynes enough for everything that they have done for me, I would love to name every person but the list would be endless from coaches, to owners, fans and players. I also want to thank my parents for supporting me from a young age and my wife and children who have supported and allowed me to go off each weekend to play missing their birthdays, parties and other important events.
It is now time to focus on spending time with my beautiful girls and watching them grow…. But not before we give this weekend our absolute everything! Coventry means more than ever to me this year and I know the lads will put in everything they possibly can to get us there!
To the fans, keep being loud and proud and supporting the club the way you always have. You are all amazing and I look forward to catching up at a game in the future from the other side of the plexi!”
Lewis Christie leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, teamwork, and an indelible impact on British Ice Hockey. As he hangs up his skates, the Milton Keynes Lightning and its fans will forever cherish the memories and victories he helped secure. We wish Lewis all the best in his future endeavours and thank him for his unwavering commitment and countless contributions to the sport.
