Polish netminder Przemyslaw Odrobny is leaving the club by mutual agreement, the Smith Recycling MK Lightning confirmed today.
‘Shemy’, 32, signed for MKL in summer 2016 following a season in France, becoming the club’s first choice stopper last season.
After sustaining an injury in one of the opening fixtures this season, the club signed Miika Wiikman as cover for Odrobny, with promising young British talent Jordan Hedley already signed as backup.
Head Coach Pete Russell explained that releasing Odrobny allows him to seek another club quickly as possible. “Shemy needs to be playing full time to keep his levels up for club action and for the Polish national team.
“I met with Shemy and listened to his concerns and I have not taken this decision lightly – in fact it’s one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make. But it’s the best decision for all parties and we move on.
“Along with everyone else at the Lightning, I want to thank Shemy for everything during his time at the Lightning on and off the ice, and we wish him absolutely every success in his next challenge.”
Shemy was quick to thank the club for the opportunity of playing and spoke of his optimism for the future: “I’m sad to be leaving Milton Keynes Lightning but I need more ice time to develop myself and show my abilities. I’ve been offered an opportunity with another club in another league, where I can develop my skills even more.
“I would like to say thank you to all the fans and the organisation over the past two seasons. I have met some many great people during my career with Lightning. Milton Keynes has allowed me to grow both as a player and person and I wish my teammates all the success this coming season.
“Milton Keynes Lightning will always have a place in my heart and I hope maybe I will be back here in the future!”
Milton Keynes Lightning would like to thank Shemy’s jersey sponsors this season: @Iceman3533, the MKL Quiz Team and Drummer Luce.
Photo: Tony Sargent
