The Genting Casino Coventry Blaze can confirm that British forward Nathan Ripley has agreed a two-way deal with the NIHL’s Milton Keynes Lightning.
Blaze will have first call on Ripley’s services, but to aid his development with additional ice time and responsibility, he will made available to ice for Milton Keynes when appropriate.
Ripley’s first appearance for the Lightning will come on Thursday when they face Swindon Wildcats in the Semi-Final of the National Cup.
21-year-old Ripley has enjoyed Cup success in Coventry already this season, scoring four goals in 11 Challenge Cup games, including a hat-trick against the Guildford Flames.
The 6’0” winger has also appeared in 29 Elite League games during what it is his second season in Coventry.
In his debut year, Ripley registered 14 points (six goals, eight assists) in 66 Elite League competition games.
Prior to moving to the Elite League, Ripley enjoyed two seasons with the Sheffield Steeldogs where he won the Playoff trophy and NIHL Cup.
That season saw him lift the Playoff trophy after already winning the NIHL Cup the previous term with Sheffield.
Ripley progressed through the Sheffield junior system and also spent two years in the Canadian Ontario Hockey Academy.
