The Greenville Swamp Rabbits announced this week that forward Colton Young will return to the franchise for the upcoming 2026‑27 campaign, marking his second stint with the club after a productive run earlier in the decade. The move comes after Young completed a short stint with the Kalamazoo Wings and a solid stretch with the Norfolk Admirals, where he contributed six points in 11 games and added five more in the Kelly Cup Playoffs.
A Look Back at His Professional Journey
Young's professional path began with a debut for the Swamp Rabbits on April 7, 2023, when he recorded a pair of assists against Orlando. Over his first two seasons in the ECHL he appeared in 83 games, tallying 45 points (19 goals, 26 assists). His breakout campaign came during the 2024‑25 season, when he posted 25 points (12 goals, 13 assists) in 40 games before being reassigned to Norfolk, where he continued to demonstrate his offensive versatility.
College Roots and International Background
Before turning professional, Young skated four seasons at Colgate University, where he accumulated 82 points (34 goals, 48 assists) in 134 contests. His senior year culminated in a 2023 ECAC championship, highlighting his leadership and offensive skill set. Born in Calgary, Alberta, he brings a Canadian flavor to the roster while having spent much of his recent career in the United States.
What the Return Means for Greenville
The Swamp Rabbits view Young's return as a strategic addition aimed at strengthening their forward depth and adding veteran presence to a young lineup. His familiarity with the organization, combined with his proven ability to generate points in both regular‑season and playoff settings, positions him as a key contributor as the team looks to climb the Eastern Conference standings. General manager Jeff MacDougall emphasized that Young's work ethic and offensive instincts align perfectly with the club's long‑term vision.
Fans can expect to see Young back on the ice when the Swamp Rabbits open their 2026‑27 season at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina. The organization has also confirmed that his contract includes a clause that ties his participation to the team's performance in the upcoming playoffs, underscoring the mutual expectations between player and franchise.