Fife Flyers chief quits amid speculation over signing of US ice hockey star

The chief operating officer of the UK’s oldest ice hockey club has resigned amid speculation over the signing of a former NHL star who faced domestic violence charges.

Gareth Chalmers announced his departure from Fife Flyers, based in Kirkcaldy, in a statement posted on social media, citing a disagreement with a “certain plan” being pursued by the club.

Fife Flyers have been heavily linked with ex-Boston Bruins star Milan Lucic, a member of their 2011 Stanley Cup championship team.

Canadian international Lucic is a high-profile sportsman in the United States, partly because he stood trial for allegedly assaulting his wife, Brittany Carnegie.

Prosecutors dropped the case in February 2024, saying the decision by Lucic’s wife to invoke marital privilege to not testify made it impossible for them to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt.

Mr Chalmers did not specifically mention Lucic in his surprise resignation statement on Wednesday evening and Fife Flyers have not publicly confirmed the move.

It is also unclear whether Mr Chalmers disagreed with the club on potentially signing Lucic, but he referred to numerous issues in his departure statement.

Chalmers said: “Following recent developments relating to the team, there have been multiple occasions where I felt strongly compelled to advise against a certain plan.

“Despite my concerns, the club has chosen to proceed, and while differences of opinion are very much part of any sporting environment, these plans placed me at odds with the club’s direction.

“Experience has taught me that I cannot sacrifice personal and professional integrity for decisions I am opposed to.

“I am genuinely gutted to be taking this step. The Flyers is a fantastic club with an incredible storied history, supported by exceptionally loyal fans and outstanding volunteers whose dedication has sustained the organisation for many previous years.”

A North American-based group completed a takeover of the Fife Flyers earlier this year.

Former Cardiff Devils and Israel forward Max Birbraer led the takeover process and is currently Flyers’ president and general manager.

Chalmers was appointed COO in June, having previously served as the head of league rivals Glasgow Clan, but his tenure as chief operating officer has proven to be short-lived.

Fife Flyers are currently bottom of the EIHL after recently ending a record 18-game losing streak under the new owners.

A club statement read: “The Fife Flyers Ice Hockey Club can confirm that Gareth Chalmers has stepped down from his role as Chief Operating Officer.

“We are incredibly grateful to Gareth for the time, energy, and commitment he has shown in helping relaunch and rebuild the club during a vital period.

2His experience and dedication played a key role in laying the foundations for getting us back onto the ice following our late takeover of the club during the summer.

“Gareth has admirably agreed to provide operational support until early in January, to ensure the transition period is as smooth as possible for the organisation, while we work to secure his successor. We are also aware of recent speculation regarding potential player signings.

“We remain mindful of the broader responsibilities that come with every decision we make, and continue to act in the best interests of the club and its future.

“We wish Gareth nothing but the very best for the future, and he will always be part of the Flyers family.”