The ECHL’s Rapid City Rush announced this week that they have secured the services of defenseman Ben Wozney for the upcoming 2026‑27 season, tying the 25‑year‑old to the franchise that serves as the Calgary Flames’ primary developmental outlet.
Wozney’s return to the United States comes after a single campaign spent in France’s Division 1, where he led all Nantes skaters with 15 points in 30 appearances and earned the distinction of being the team’s top scorer.
A Bowling Green State University alumnus, Wozney capped a four‑year collegiate stint that yielded 34 points — five goals and 29 assists — in 130 games, a body of work that helped him attract attention from both European clubs and NHL affiliates.
The Rush, an ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League’s Calgary Flames, highlighted the signing as a blend of experience and upside, noting that the defenseman’s offensive instincts could bolster a blue‑line that has been seeking additional depth.
A Strategic Fit for the Flames’ Farm Team
The affiliation with the Calgary Flames adds a layer of strategic importance to the move, as the NHL club can monitor Wozney’s development more closely and potentially call him up should injuries or performance gaps arise.
Coach and management alike praised the move, stating that Wozney’s familiarity with the Flames organization and his proven ability to produce points in a competitive environment make him a natural fit for the club’s defensive core.
Fans in Rapid City and across South Dakota will recognize the name, as the city’s hockey community has long followed Wozney’s progression from college standout to professional prospect.
The signing also underscores the growing international pipeline that feeds talent into the ECHL, with players like Wozney moving between European leagues and North American affiliates to sharpen their games.
Heading into the 2026‑27 campaign, the Rush will look to integrate Wozney into a roster that aims to contend for a playoff berth, hoping his offensive contributions can translate into more wins on the ice.