Rapid City Rush Extends Partnership with Calgary Flames
In a noteworthy move for ice hockey development, the Rapid City Rush, an affiliate of the Calgary Flames in the ECHL, announced on Friday the extension of their collaborative partnership with the Flames along with the Calgary Wranglers of the American Hockey League (AHL). This multi-year agreement underscores the successful relationship between the two organizations.
Coaching Insights and Player Development
Dave Smith, who serves as both the Head Coach and General Manager of the Rush, expressed enthusiasm over the continued affiliation, highlighting the effective communication that has fostered an environment for player skill progression within a competitive setting. He emphasized the dual importance of developing players while equipping the Rush with necessary resources to achieve victory.
During the previous season, seven Rush players actively participated in games with the Wranglers, collectively amassing a total of 72 appearances. Notably, five of these players marked their debut in the AHL last season. Among them was Rory Kerins, a former Rush forward who made headlines by becoming the first individual to ascend all the way from Rapid City to the NHL as of January. He joins a select group of eight alumni from the Rush to reach the NHL.
Player Development Pathway
Since their affiliation initiation in 2022, a total of 14 Rush players have played for either the Flames or the Wranglers, demonstrating the fruitful player development pathway established. Brad Pascall, the Flames’ Assistant General Manager, conveyed satisfaction with the renewed partnership, citing Rapid City as an excellent venue for both play and player development, underpinned by shared values and objectives concerning athlete progression.
Success of the Wranglers and Future Prospects
The Wranglers have enjoyed a successful record since relocating from Stockton, California, achieving winning seasons and playoff qualifications in all three years of their existence, including an impressive 51-win record during the inaugural year of partnership with Rapid City. As the Flames look to build on a successful season, which marked their best performance in three years, the Rush is also poised for continued advancement.
Significance of the Partnership
Jared Reid, President of the Rush, remarked on the significance of this extension, indicating that their relationship with Calgary has reached new heights. He appreciated the Flames’ steadfast commitment to developmental excellence and their shared vision for winning, making this collaboration a strong alliance.
Historical Context
Historically, this marks the third affiliation for the Rush; they previously partnered with the Arizona Coyotes from 2015 to 2017, and again from 2019 to 2022, alongside a brief affiliation with the Minnesota Wild for the 2017-18 season.
