Rutkis and Grinell Parke sign an extension for 25/26

Toms Rutkis:

Born in Riga, Latvia, and raised in the UK, Rutkis brings a wealth of experience from his time in the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL), having played for the Cardiff Devils, Coventry Blaze, and Dundee Stars. Toms joined MKL in 2023 and has played over 100 games (including playoffs) for the team. Rutkis has continued to showcase his skills, tallying 36 points in 52 games during the last season with the team. 

Expressing his enthusiasm for the upcoming season, Rutkis stated:

“It is a privilege and a choice that I am proud of to rejoin this club for the upcoming season. The support that myself and the team have had is something unlike I’ve experienced before. Having won two trophies in my two years here, it only makes sense to aim for the treble in year three. Can’t wait to be back and hear the crowd again.”

Rio Grinell-Parke:

The 26-year-old London native has played over 160 games for Lightning. Grinell-Parkes standout performance included a crucial game-winning goal in the first leg of the National Cup Final against Hull Seahawks in 23/24 which helped propel MKL to a 10–5 aggregate victory and securing the silverware.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the upcoming season, Grinell-Parke stated:

“I’m really excited to be returning back to the Lightning for another season. There were no second thoughts or contemplation. Milton Keynes is one of the best atmospheres I’ve gotten to experience playing in, and why would I deny myself the chance to do so again for another season in front of the best fans a club could ask for? I hope to keep doing my best for the team and for the club as a whole, and with the momentous finish to last season, I want another shot at winning some more silverware.”