As they look towards a new season more determined than ever to win silverware, Milton Keynes Lightning are delighted to be able to confirm that highly-rated Slovenian forward Blaz Emersic has chosen to stay with the team for the 2012-13 season.

After signing for the Lightning in January 2011, Blaz immediately made his mark with 39 points in 28 games, and two vital goals in the team's progress to the play-off final last season.  And in the season just ended he bagged 72 points, which included 34 goals - missing  out on the title of the team's top scorer by just one.

"It was an easy decision to make, to return for another season," said Blaz.  "I've thoroughly enjoyed my time in Milton Keynes, so I'm delighted to be coming back.  I know that Nick is putting together a great team, that I'm sure will challenge for trophies next year - I'm very much looking forward to the season starting!"

Player-coach Nick Poole was quick to praise the quality that Emersic brings to the team: "We're absolutely delighted to be bringing back Blaz for another year, as we feel in him we have the most complete player in the league.  He does everything so well and never takes a night off.  He competes at both ends of the ice and is a leader on our team.  Some players' form fluctuates, but Blaz is like a Rolls Royce out there, always performing to a very high standard.

"He put up good numbers for us last year whilst at the same time helping us be one of the stingiest teams in the league, and I have no doubt he'll do it all again this this year.  I know our supporters will be very pleased with this re-signing as he is a player you can build a team around."

Sponsorship of Blaz Emersic's home, away and warm-up shirts is now available - get your name seen not just on the player's shirt but also in our matchnight programme and on the Planet Ice digital message board for every home league game during the 2012-13 season - or sponsor a shirt to promote your business!  At the end of the season the shirt is yours to keep. For more details email  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . Shirt sponsorship is dealt with on a 'first come, first served' basis.