Off the back of Mack Stewart joining AIB MK Lightning last week on a two way contract, we are pleased to introduce a player development collaboration with Belfast Giants, which will see training and playing opportunities for AIB MKL players over this coming season.

The first player benefitting from this collaboration will be Sean Norris, who is joining the Giants pre-season development camp and will participate in their challenge games vs. Cardiff Devils.  Sean is hugely looking forward to training and developing with the Elite League team in advance of returning to MK for the NIHL National season which begins with pre-season on 10th September, before our first Planet Ice NIHL National fixture at home on 17th September.

Sean will also sign a two way contract with the Giants, with AIB MKL having first call on his services across the season.

Not taking part in the camp, but also signing a similar two way arrangement is Bobby Chamberlain.  It’s a real testament to Bobby’s work ethic and professionalism that he has been identified by the Giants as a player they want to work with.

Other players will also have the chance to participate in this partnership over the course of the season and we’ll share more info as and when those opportunities arise.  AIB MKL Head Coach Tim Wallace said “I’m pleased that we have been able to work with Adam Keefe at Belfast to create opportunities both ways, for Mack Stewart with us and for Sean to experience and grow in an Elite League environment to start the year. Sean’s excited to fly off to Belfast tomorrow, and I know he will be skating hard, listening well, and extracting every bit of learning he can. I hope he has a great experience.”

Commenting on the announcement, Belfast Giants’ Head Coach Adam Keefe said: “Investing in, and developing talent is incredibly important to this organisation, and that’s why we believe our two-way arrangement with Milton Keynes Lightning is a great step, and mutually beneficial in its contribution to adding further depth to the Giants’ British core. 

 “We will do all we can to continue to provide chances for talented new athletes to continually grow and improve alongside us, both on and off the ice. I look forward to seeing what these guys can produce on the ice this season when the opportunity arises.” 

Huge congratulations to Sean and Bobby for being selected for this chance.