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.

The club has been contacted for comment.