Introduction
The Miltons are an English ice hockey family, four sons and a father, all four played ice hockey with two still playing. Zach Milton and his older brother Jamie Milton are the only two players to currently play; however, there is something special about Zach himself is that he becomes the first Milton to play in the EIHL full time by signing with the Manchester Storm.
Image by John Scott
Time with the Slough Jets and Bracknell Drones
The majority of Zach Milton’s development was with the Slough Jets, he would play for their U15, U16, U18A and U18 teams. Milton was one of the best players at that level, dominating gratefully at that level, his offensive prowess at such a young age showed great potential for the future ahead. He would play 55 games at that level putting up an unstoppable 80 points (Pts). His passing and shooting ability was developing extremely fast which was handy for his journey to the EIHL.
He would move over to the Bracknell Drones for the 16/17 and 17/18 season in the England U18 league. He would yet again show how far he was developing on ice. He would put up around a point per game which showed his ability to be consistent on the attack and his penalty minutes were low which indicate that he had great senses and discipline. He would be named the captain of the team in the second season which was good for his leadership skills on and off the ice,
Games in the EIHL and NIHL
Milton would first join the NIHL for the 19/20 season with the Bracknell Bees with the sole task of impressing EIHL teams. He would hit the road running, dominating the entire ice pad, stealing the puck off players and being able to dangle past them to get the puck up the ice and into the back of the net. He would then move to the Basingstoke Bison for the next two season and the second season he signed a two way contract with the Guildford Flames for the next two seasons where he again dominated on the ice as he would play 104 games putting up 118 Pts which makes fans wonder how he would perform in the EIHL. He signed for the Raiders IHC last season along with the two way teams with the Guildford Flames where he would play 44 games putting 53 Pts.
He played 19 games in the EIHL which helped team personnel and fans understand he needed some more lower league development as he wouldn’t score a single point; however, he demonstrated he has the knowledge and with some more time he can find some success.
Conclusion
Zach Milton's journey to signing his first full-time professional contract with the Manchester Storm is a testament to his dedication, development, and undeniable talent. From his formative years with the Slough Jets to his impactful stints with the Bracknell Drones and various NIHL teams, Milton has consistently demonstrated his offensive prowess and leadership qualities. Although his initial experience in the EIHL showed room for growth, his impressive performance in the NIHL highlights his potential for success at the highest level.
Author of Article: Calan Yule
Editor: Calan Yule
Proofread By: Will Harris
© EIHL News Central
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