Unlike his name sake, fan favourite Ozzy (#21 Mark Austen) isn’t ready to say goodbye just yet. Mark joined Thunder part way through the 2022/23 season and made an immediate impact in NIHL 1 South with his physicality and speed. Over the past two seasons Mark has been a key member of the clubs offensive core, and demonstrated his adaptability last season filling in on the blue line for several games. As the club enters NIHL 2 South for the first time, Mark will bring experience of the league, having previously played for Basingstoke Buffalo and Bracknell Buffalo and Wasps. Mark also served as an assistant captain last season and his leadership skills were instrumental in the support and development of the club’s young roster.

Ozzy is excited to put pen to paper on his extension in Milton Keynes:

I’m fully invested in the vision that Will, Lauren and the rest of the management have team have put in place. I’m really happy to be on board and looking forward to playing a key role in the future of the club. We’ve put together a really strong roster for next season that I think will be very competitive in our new division. Can’t wait to be back in Milton Keynes playing in front of everyone again – roll on September. 

Head Coach Will Fry on the decision to bring Ozzy back:

It was an easy decision for us really, Mark played a key role all across the ice for us last season, contributing offensively, defensively and as part of our special teams unit. He is a great role model for our younger group and played a huge role in the leaps forward that some of them made last season. He leads by example and is comfortable playing in any role with any group of players – you know he will bring 100% effort 100% of the time and is respected by everyone in the room. I think at NIHL 2 level he will have a big impact on the league and we’re really glad to have him back with us for another season as a key member of our project.

Marks home and away jerseys are available to own and loan now – Please email mkthundericehockey@gmail.com to reserve yours today.