Defenseman Jules Smith has committed to Thunder for another season. Bringing a wealth of experience, Jules has previously played for Peterborough Phantoms and Romford Raiders of the EPHIL/ENL, followed by a number of years in NIHL 1 with Chelmsford, Romford and of course Milton Keynes Thunder. Jules also played shortly for the Nottingham Panthers in the EIHL during the 2007-08 season. As a junior Jules spent his time in Peterborough, earning international call ups for the Great Britain U18 and U20 squads for IIHF D1 tournaments respectively.

On his return to Milton Keynes, Jules said:

I am thrilled and grateful for the opportunity to continue being a part of Thunder. In this exciting new-look league with more teams to challenge ourselves against, I look forward to supporting the team in a successful year. Will is building a young, fast team that will hopefully surprise our opponents. While balancing work and family commitments, I am committed to giving my all and using my experience (old age) to help strengthen our defensive zone. I’m looking forward to joining the rest of the team and getting started.

Thunder Head Coach Will Fry is delighted to have Jules back for another season, not only for his quality on the ice, but for guidance and leadership amongst a young and refreshed team this year:

Jules agreeing to come back is excellent for us. His qualities as a player are proven throughout his extensive hockey CV, and he will be an important piece of our defensive core. We know that he will have limited availability due to commitments outside the game, but having him around to provide valuable influence to our younger players will be pivotal in their development and really adds to our philosophy of providing these talented young athletes the best environment and opportunity to learn and grow.

Jules’ Own & Loan, Home and Away jerseys are available for £95 each.

Please email mkthundericehockey@gmail.com if you are interested in securing one.