Reilly Funk is set to lace up his skates for the Toledo Walleye once again, marking his first full professional season in the 2026‑27 campaign.
Born in Portage, Manitoba, the 25‑year‑old grew up dreaming of the rink, eventually carving out a five‑year collegiate path that spanned Northern Michigan University and Bemidji State University.
During his final college years, Funk accumulated 54 points in 113 games, showcasing a blend of offensive skill and defensive reliability that caught the eye of the Walleye staff.
His initial professional stint with Toledo saw him record seven points in 18 regular‑season appearances and four goals in the postseason, a performance that hinted at untapped potential.
A Fresh Chapter
Now back for a full season, Funk hopes to translate his collegiate consistency into a more prominent role on the Walleye roster, bringing veteran poise and a knack for timely scoring.
The team’s management praised his work ethic and versatility, noting that his experience in high‑pressure games will be invaluable as the club pushes for a deeper playoff run.
Beyond the ice, Funk’s journey reflects a broader narrative of perseverance, from captaining the Youngstown Phantoms in the USHL to navigating the transition between two major college programs.
Fans can expect to see a more confident version of the forward, one who has already tasted the intensity of postseason play and is eager to contribute night after night.