Dear Thunder Fans,

First and foremost, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for your unwavering support throughout the season so far. While the journey has had its challenges and results have not always gone our way, your passion and loyalty—both at home and on the road—have been invaluable to our players, staff, and the club as a whole.

When I took on the role earlier this year, our key objective, aligned with club management, was clear: to prioritise the development of talent and lay the foundation for long-term success. Together with the MK Storm coaching staff, we launched Project Thunderstorm, a framework that emphasises the integration of locally trained players and the recruitment of high-potential athletes. We have also externally identified “diamonds in the rough”— players who may have been overlooked elsewhere but are eager to grow and succeed. We also placed great importance on establishing a solid leadership core to mentor and guide our younger prospects.

A Season of Growth

The progress we’ve seen across the squad has been exceptional, particularly among our younger players. Our external youth recruits; Sean Reynolds, Jared Vigar, Xander Robinson, Theo Sire, Leland Stevens, and Freddie Stephens have all made their debuts in NIHL1 this season, demonstrating they have the tools, work ethic, and mindset to excel at this level. From within the MK system, we’ve also been proud to award senior debuts to Will Rees, Ivo Gaytanksi, Harry Foster, and Mikel Gomez-Ortega. These players have truly grasped to the opportunity and continue to train diligently alongside prospects like Alfie Duguid, Lewis Conroy and Josh Furnell, who are working hard to earn their opportunities when the time comes.

Our approach is creating a ripple effect throughout the junior system. These young talents are not only raising their personal intensity and standards in senior practices but  also excelling in their junior squads, pushing their peers to improve. This interconnected development is a testament to the strength of Project Thunderstorm.

I also want to celebrate the contributions of our young full-time Thunder players, including Charlie Conroy, Sam Purcell, and Kaleb Sheahan. Kaleb, while balancing junior commitments, has stepped in admirably during key moments, including a standout performance in our recent win over Oxford. Sam and Charlie’s development has been equally remarkable. Sam has grown into a top-six forward, earning powerplay minutes, while Charlie’s relentless work ethic was rewarded with his first senior goal last weekend.

A Unified Effort

The growth mindset is not limited to our younger players. Our senior core has fully embraced the challenge of leading by example, working tirelessly to elevate both themselves and the team. Despite our resource constraints, we’ve built a roster driven by grit, determination, and a collective desire to succeed. The competition for places is fierce, making selection decisions challenging but highlighting the depth of commitment and talent across the group.

This season, we’ve introduced new systems and concepts to enhance both technical and tactical aspects of our game. Progress, as we all know, comes with its share of growing pains. While the recent win was a significant milestone, our focus remains on consistent improvement. Watching the team develop in skill, understanding, and confidence week by week is where the true rewards lie for me and the coaching staff.

Looking Ahead

As we head into December, we carry the momentum of our first win into a crucial phase of the season. Our ambition to secure a playoff spot in this expanded league remains firmly within reach. The team is determined to capitalise on upcoming opportunities and make a strong push for at least 8th place—or higher. Achieving this goal would be a monumental step for this group and a testament to their hard work and dedication.

To all our fans, thank you again for believing in our vision and supporting this journey. Watching these young athletes grow and work toward their goals—both on and off the ice—is a privilege for our coaching staff. Your encouragement makes all the difference, and we’re excited to continue this journey with you.

A Special Shoutout

I would also like to spotlight Madi Wright, who joined us this season on a two-way agreement with Solihull Vixens. Madi, whom I’ve had the privilege of coaching in Nottingham, has been a model of consistency and composure against even the toughest opposition. Her recent selection for the Great Britain Women’s Olympic Qualifying roster was a proud moment for the entire club and one of my personal coaching highlights. We’ll be cheering her, and the rest of the GB Women’s team, on in Sheffield this December as they take another step towards the 2026 Olympic Games.

Thank you again for your continued support. Together, we’re building something special.

Will
Head Coach, MK Thunder