Lightning Bring Home-Grown Talent Home: Jake Hayward Signs for the 2026/27 Season

The lifestack Milton Keynes Lightning are delighted to announce the signing of defenceman Jake Hayward for the 2026/27 NIHL National Division season.

The 20-year-old right-shot blue-liner returns to British hockey following four years of development in North America, most recently skating for the Red River Spartans in the USPHL Premier. Standing at 5’11” and weighing 176 lbs, the Coventry-born defender is a product of the Coventry Blaze junior system who has steadily developed his game across the Atlantic before catching the eye of Head Coach Pete Russell at the GB Men’s national team camp in February.

In the 2025/26 USPHL Premier season, Hayward delivered a standout offensive campaign from the blue line, recording 11 goals and 22 assists for 33 points in 40 regular season games, adding a further 4 assists in 4 playoff appearances. It was a significant leap from his 2024/25 season with the Florida Jr. Blades, where he posted 5 points in 31 games,  underlining the rapid upward curve in his development. His GB pedigree spans U18, U20 and Senior international appearances, with his senior call-up in February 2026 the latest confirmation of his growing standing in the British game.

Jake Hayward shared his excitement at joining the lifestack Milton Keynes Lightning:

“I’m thrilled to be joining the Milton Keynes Lightning for the upcoming season. After playing abroad for the past four years I’m excited to start a new chapter in MK. I’ve heard lots of good things about the atmosphere, so really looking forward to playing in front of you guys. Can’t wait to get started!”

Lightning Head Coach Pete Russell was equally enthusiastic about securing the young defender’s signature:

“Jake is a 20-year-old right-shot D with a lot of potential. He played in North America for the last four years and came to our men’s national team in February and we liked what we saw from him. He moves well, has a solid skill set and competes in key areas. We are delighted to have Jake in our group.”

Hayward’s arrival adds youth, pace and genuine offensive upside to the Lightning blue line as the club continues to assemble a roster built for silverware in 2026/27. His development trajectory, combined with GB senior experience at just 20 years old, marks him out as one of the most exciting young British defenders to arrive at Planet Ice Milton Keynes in recent seasons.

Everyone at the lifestack Milton Keynes Lightning would like to welcome Jake to the club and look forward to seeing him in action this season.

Jake will wear the number 3 jersey for the 2026/27 season. Supporters will have the opportunity to Own and Loan his jersey now — please email dave@b2promodesign.com, stating the jersey type – Light, Dark, Warm-Up or any.

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Check the MK Lightning Roster here

For more information and updates, visit www.mk-lightning.co.uk