Thunder are delighted to announce the signing of 19 year old defenceman Robert Oxley. A member of the Telford Tigers 2 team who had a very successful season in NIHL 2 North, Robert returns to Milton Keynes where he started his junior career. After playing for MK Storm at U15 level, he made the move to Peterborough where he got his first taste of senior hockey with Phantoms 2 during the 2021-22 season, as well as icing with the Phantoms in the NIHL National. After his he signed in Nottingham for the Lions at NIHL 1 level where he stayed for 2 seasons, which included another opportunity to play in the NIHL with Peterborough in the 2023/24 campaign.

Whilst still only 19 Robert has a wealth of experience under his belt already, which also includes representing Nottingham Mavericks in the BUIHA and Nottingham Trent University, with whom he won the renowned Nottingham Varsity this year. Strong defensively, Oxley isn’t afraid to contribute offensively either, registering 17 points in 26 games for the Tigers last season.

Rob is looking forward to returning to where it all started:

I’m really looking forward to returning to MK where my Ice Hockey career started 10 years. It’ll be great to play with many familiar faces again. I’ve gained lots of experience since I’ve been away both at junior and senior level where I’ve racked up over 100 appearances in the NIHL 1 and 2. Will and Lauren have both made me feel very welcome and I can’t wait for the season to get started!

Head Coach Will Fry commented on the signing news:

We’re delighted to capture Rob’s signature for the upcoming season. He caught my eye playing in the Nottingham Varsity game earlier this year, and I heard a lot of great things about him through some mutual contacts. He performed really well in a very strong Telford team at finals weekend as well and after speaking with him and having him down for a few summer sessions its clear the quality that he will bring to our defensive group this season. It’s always special to bring back a player with previous MK connections, he knows the rink well and has a lot of connections here still. We look forward to having him as a key part of our group for 2025/26.

Robert will wear the number 5 this season and his Home & Away jerseys are available to own and loan now at a cost of £80 each – Please email mkthundericehockey@gmail.com to reserve yours.