A Familiar Face Returns to the Ice
The Wheeling Nailers announced this week that they have re‑signed defenseman Alexander Kuqali to a contract that will carry him through the 2026‑27 season. The agreement brings the 35‑year‑old back to a familiar locker room where he previously logged 23 regular‑season appearances and contributed four points.
In his debut stint with the Nailers, Kuqali made an instant impression, not only with his defensive reliability but also with his presence in the dressing room. He appeared in 23 games, posting a goal and three assists, and added two assists across 16 playoff contests as the team chased the Kelly Cup.
Kuqali’s professional journey spans five ECHL franchises — including stints with Florida, Quad City, Orlando, Fort Wayne and his current team, Wheeling — and three seasons in the Elite Ice Hockey League with Coventry Blaze. In 453 combined games he has accumulated 122 points, showcasing a blend of offensive flair and steady defensive play.
Before turning pro, the blue‑liner honed his craft at the Rochester Institute of Technology, where he captained the Tigers for his senior season. The team captured two Atlantic Hockey Tournament titles during his tenure, and Kuqali was recognized with a spot on the All‑Tournament Team. He also etched his name into RIT history by scoring the opening goal in a 2‑1 victory over Minnesota State at the NCAA National Tournament.
Off the ice, Kuqali follows in his brother Nicholas’s footsteps as a coach with the Pittsburgh Predators Hockey Club, a youth program based at Ice Castle Arena. Nicholas previously wore a Nailers jersey during the 2013‑14 and 2014‑15 seasons, making the Kuqali brothers the second pair of family members to have donned the Wheeling colors.
The re‑signing underscores the Nailers’ intent to blend youthful energy with veteran savvy as they aim for a deep playoff run. General manager praised Kuqali’s work ethic and community involvement, noting that his experience will be vital as the club looks to build on recent successes.