Thunder are delighted to announce the signing of #64 Sam Purcell. After a breakthrough season as a prospect last year, Sam has more than earned the opportunity to join Thunder full time to continue his development.

Sam is a product of the Milton Keynes Storm Junior system and made his senior debut last season, icing in 19 games, demonstrating his potential. Alongside his senior experience, Sam continued to produce for MK Storm U18’s, where he was Assistant Captain, with 12 points in 7 games.

After the recent announcement of Project Thunderstorm, designed to offer a clearly defined pathway to senior hockey for talented Milton Keynes trained players, and the announcement of Charlie Conroy, the opportunity to bring Sam up full time further proves Thunder’s commitment to the support and development of athletes from our local community.

Sam was asked how he is feeling ahead of his first season with us full time:

I really enjoyed the challenge of last season with Thunder as I feel like I learnt a lot and improved a lot as well. I’m very excited to go again next season and looking forward to playing with the team full time.

Sam will continue to play for MK Storm U18’s next season alongside his commitments with Thunder, not only benefitting from additional ice time with regards his development, but also as a role model to his peers – demonstrating how hard work, attitude and commitment is rewarded with similar opportunities.

New Thunder Head Coach Will Fry took note of Sam when he had the opportunity to attend some of our games last season, and was further impressed with him during our trial period:

I’ve heard a lot of good things about Sam. His coaches in the Storm programme have all spoken very highly of his attitude, commitment and potential as a player. The opportunities I had to see him play and train last season affirmed this to me and its clear that he has a maturity beyond his years with motivations to improve and forward his hockey career. It’s another example where we are able to bring a locally trained player into our ranks and strengthen our commitment to being a community focused club. I’m looking forward to working with Sam over the course of next season and hopefully seeing if we can push him onto higher levels in the future.

With more player announcements to come, our roster is developing nicely ahead of the new year. We look forward to seeing Sam icing in a more prominent role next season and continue to play a role in his ongoing development.

If you would like to Own & Loan either of Sam’s jerseys, they are available now at £95 each.

Email mkthundericehockey@gmail.com to reserve yours now!