MK Lightning sign Panthers prospect

Milton Keynes Lightning are delighted to announce that young defenceman Tom Norton will skate in MK colours for the coming season. Tom, who celebrates his 21st birthday next month, was born in Nottingham and after watching his hometown team play since the age of six, worked his way up through the ranks of the city’s junior ice hockey system.  He played his first full season for Elite League side Nottingham Panthers in the season just ended, helping the team to win the play-off trophy and Challenge Cup in the process. Tom has taken part in summer training camps run by Panthers’ coach Corey Neilson, who has hailed Norton as “one of the biggest prospects around”, complimenting him on his ability and composure on the puck. And with caps earned playing at Team GB U20 level, Norton will be a perfect fit for an MK Lightning team with a generous helping of experience at international level. Nick Poole says he is certain that this new addition to the roster will bring benefits for Lightning in coming seasons.  “We’re thrilled to be able to sign such a promising young player from the Elite League to help strengthen our roster for next season.  Tom brings experience gained from a full season in a one of the country’s most successful teams.  He’s young and hungry to make his mark in the sport, and we are happy to be able to give him the chance to shine and show exactly what he’s capable of. “Lightning’s fans have always been very supportive of every one of our players, so I know Tom can look forward to a really warm welcome as he begins his career with us. “At Lightning, we always pride ourselves in having a team that's built from the back - and we are sure Tom will help to once again make the MK Lightning one of the toughest teams to score against in the league.”