Milton Keynes Lightning sign Canadian Centre Michael Fine

    Image Credit: Ryerson University

    Milton Keynes Lightning continue their recruitment for the 2018-19 Elite League campaign by adding Canadian forward Michael Fine. 

    The Ontario-born player transfers to MK after a season with Esbjerg Energy in the Danish Metal Ligaen.

    During five seasons on the Ryerson University “Rams” team in Toronto, Michael, 27, was the side’s all-time leader in points (132), goals (49) and assists (83).

    He was twice named a first-team Ontario University Athletics All-Star player.

    Fine became an alternate captain in just his second season at Ryerson, rising to Captain for his final three seasons.

    In his final season with the Rams, whilst completing his degree in Arts and Contemporary Studies, Michael’s Head Coach credited him with having “left the program in a better place than when he found it”.

    Entering the highly rated Ontario Hockey League in 2007 Michael was drafted in the third round by Sault Ste Marie Greyhounds – the team finishing as league runners up in his first year.

    He remained in the league for a further four years before returning home to Toronto with Ryerson.

    At the age of 18, his abilities were recognised when he was ranked on the NHL Central Scouting List – alongside now world famous NHL luminaries John Tavares and Matt Duchene.

    On completing his studies he took the opportunity for his first taste of the European game with double Metal Ligaen champions Esbjerg Energy, also competing in the Champions’ Hockey League.

    Lightning’s Head Coach Doug McKay says he can see a lot of potential in the Lightning’s newest arrival.

    He said: “He has undoubted leadership qualities and that will help take us forward, as well as bringing on some of our younger players.  He may not be the most outspoken guy but he has a big personality.”

    “The OHL is an extremely competitive league and he did very well there, going on to be a real star at Ryerson.”

    “Whilst I know that his time at Esbjerg didn’t finish the way he’d have wanted it to, I know how much it motivated him to push on and develop further – so I’m very happy to be able to give him this opportunity so show his skills in Milton Keynes Lightning colours.”

    Sponsored Stories

     

    Local News

    Weather

    • Thu

      9°C

    • Fri

      12°C

    • Sat

      13°C

    • Sun

      13°C

    • Mon

      11°C