Charlie Dodero, a 33‑year‑old defenseman, has agreed to a contract that will keep him in Idaho through the 2026‑27 season, marking the start of his third stint with the Steelheads and his seventh year in the organization overall.
A career built across continents
Over the past six seasons Dodero has traversed Europe, capturing championship titles in Slovenia with HK Olimpija Ljubljana and in France with Rouen, while also logging stints in Austria, Sweden and England. His early development came in the United States Hockey League before he moved on to the AHL with the Syracuse Crunch, where he recorded five points in 36 games.
Statutes and milestones
Back in Idaho, Dodero’s impact is measurable in both offense and penalty minutes. In his most recent campaign he paced the Steelheads’ blue line with 27 points, a tally that placed him fourth in franchise history among defensemen for career points, assists and penalty minutes. Across six seasons with the club he has amassed 108 points in 259 games, ranking fourth all‑time among defensemen in points, fourth in penalty minutes and fifth in games played.
Looking ahead
Coaches and teammates alike expect the veteran’s blend of physicality and offensive acumen to shape a younger roster, while his familiarity with the organization’s culture should smooth the transition for incoming talent. The signing underscores Idaho’s intent to blend home‑grown grit with the international pedigree that has defined Dodero’s career.