JIMMY SOPER RETURNS TO THE RUSH FOR 2023-24

(RAPID CITY, SD) – The Rapid City Rush, proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Calgary Flames, announced today the return of forward Jimmy Soper for the 2023-24 ECHL Season. He joins Alex Aleardi as the second player announced and signed to the roster for the upcoming campaign, both returning players from last season.

"I can't wait to get The Monument rocking this season with the best fans in the league," said Soper. "I couldn't be more excited to come back!"

Soper began the 2022-23 ECHL Season with the Tulsa Oilers, logging 16 goals, 12 assists, and 28 points in 36 games. He was then traded to the Norfolk Admirals, but didn’t see any action. Shortly after, Soper was acquired by the Rush in a trade for future considerations and finished the season in the Black Hills, tallying 7 goals and 19 points in 28 games, while also logging a +9 rating. Between both teams, he played 64 games, earning 23 goals, 24 assists, and 47 points with a +6 rating, with his point total finishing fourth on the Rush.

“Jimmy’s return bolsters our forward lines for this season. I’m excited to have him back in the fold,” said Rush Head Coach/GM Scott Burt. “Having Jimmy join us last season in a trade brought energy and toughness to our team, which we really needed playing in the Mountain Division. He’s a tough two-way player wanting to improve every day to be the best he can be. What excites me about Jimmy’s return is that he’s another player from last season that recognizes what we can accomplish here in Rapid City, and because of that, is wanting to take this year’s team to another level. Buy in of that nature is critical for our success, and I’m glad we have Jimmy buying in for 2023-24.

Hailing from Waterloo, Ontario, Soper, 28, enters his third full season in the professional ECHL ranks, and his sixth throughout various levels in North America. During his time in the “Premier ‘AA’ Hockey League”, Soper has skated with the Rush, Tulsa Oilers, Greenville Swamp Rabbits, and Newfoundland Growlers, totaling 39 goals, 57 assists, and 96 points with 183 PIM in 164 games. Additionally, he is credited with 115 games in the SPHL, all with the Macon Mayhem, adding 24 goals, 59 points, and 119 PIM to his ledger. Before beginning his journey to the professional ranks, Soper played a year of Canadian college hockey in USports with Wilfred Laurier University, two campaigns with the MJAHL’s Truro Bearcats, one year in the OHL with the Kitchener Rangers, and one season in the GOJHL with the Waterloo Siskins.

2023-24 season tickets and mini packs are on sale now! Opening night takes place on October 27 against the Kansas City Mavericks. Don't miss out on any of the action next season. Get your season tickets or mini packs by calling us at (605) 716-7825 or online at rapidcityrush.com!