The Cincinnati Cyclones have secured a veteran presence on the blue line, announcing that defenseman Matt Hellickson will join the club for the 2026‑27 season. The move comes as the franchise looks to bolster its defensive depth ahead of a competitive campaign in the ECHL.
Hellickson’s path to professional hockey began in the U.S. National Team Development Program, where he spent two seasons refining his game before committing to college hockey at the University of Notre Dame.
Championship Pedigree and International Experience
At Notre Dame, Hellickson served as an alternate captain in his senior year and helped the Fighting Irish capture back‑to‑back Big Ten Conference championships in 2017‑18 and 2018‑19. Over 146 collegiate appearances he amassed 52 points, including 13 goals and 39 assists.
His defensive reliability earned him a Bronze Medal with the United States at the 2021 IIHF Men’s World Championship, a testament to his ability to perform on the international stage.
After college, Hellickson turned professional, logging time in the AHL with the Binghamton Devils and excelling in the ECHL with the Newfoundland Growlers and the Toronto Marlies, the latter being the primary affiliate of the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Now 35, the veteran brings a blend of experience, leadership, and a proven track record of success that the Cyclones hope will translate into a deeper playoff run. Club officials say his defensive reliability and poise under pressure are exactly the qualities they need as they aim to contend for the Kelly Cup.