Milton Keynes Lightning have signed 27-year-old Canadian forward Michael Fine from Metal Ligaen side Esbjerg Energy. 

The Ontario native spent five seasons in the OHL - icing for Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, Kingston Frontenacs and Saginaw Spirit - before enrolling at Ryerson University in 2012.

Fine spent five years at the prestigious Canadian college, appearing in 124 USports games for the Ryerson Rams during that span, scoring 49 goals and 132 points and acting as team Captain from 2014-2017.

Following his graduation, Fine joined Esbjerg, registering 13 goals and 20 points in 46 games.

“Michael 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.” Lighting Head Coach Doug McKay said.

“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.”

Photo: Chris Blanchette