(RAPID CITY, S.D.)—The Rapid City Rush, proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Calgary Flames, announced Thursday, in an Active Life Chiropractic roster adjustment, defenseman Andrew Noel has signed with the club for the 2026-27 season.
Noel, 25, enters his second professional season after splitting his rookie season between the Cincinnati Cyclones and Utah Grizzlies, where he totaled 13 points (3g+10a) and 106 penalty minutes in 51 games. The 6-foot-1, 200-pound defenseman began the year with Cincinnati before being dealt to Utah on February 17th.
“I am honored to be joining a first-class organization with a great coaching staff and rich history in Rapid City,” said Noel. “I’m really looking forward to meeting everyone and experiencing the great atmosphere that Rapid has to offer. Can’t wait to get out west and get to work.”
The Rush are familiar with Noel, having faced him in a series each as a Cyclone and Grizzlie.
“Andy is a big, strong defenseman who brought a ton of jam when we played against him last year, including stepping up to fight twice,” said Dave Smith, Rush Head Coach and General Manager. “On top of that physical presence, he is an excellent skater who adds a great dynamic to our blue line.”
The Maynard, Mass. resident spent three years at Ferris State University in Michigan before turning pro. At the junior level, Noel helped lead his teams to the playoffs in each of his two seasons, including an appearance in the BCHL’s Fred Page Cup Final in 2022.
Noel is the first newcomer to join Rapid City’s blue line for the 2026-27 season.
The Rush have announced the following player signings:
Forwards (7): Ryan Wagner, Logan Nelson, Rasmus Ekström, Cole Tymkin, Kenny Belanger Jr., Seth Fyten, Ryan Mahshie
Defensemen (3): Eric Parker, Jake Ratzlaff, Andrew Noel
2026-27 Rapid City Rush season tickets, mini plans, and group experiences are on sale now! You can score the best deals on tickets and take advantage of exclusive perks, including season ticket holder-only events and discounts at the team store. Call the Rush office at 605-716-7825 or visit www.rapidcityrush.com to learn more and secure your seats today.
Adirondack Thunder
Allen Americans
Atlanta Gladiators
Bloomington Bison
Cincinnati Cyclones
Florida Everblades
Fort Wayne Komets
Greensboro Gargoyles
Greenville Swamp Rabbits
Idaho Steelheads
Indy Fuel
Jacksonville Icemen
Kalamazoo Wings
Kansas City Mavericks
Maine Mariners
New Mexico Goatheads
Norfolk Admirals
Orlando Solar Bears
Rapid City Rush
Reading Royals
Savannah Ghost Pirates
South Carolina Stingrays
Tahoe Knight Monsters
Toledo Walleye
Trenton Ironhawks
Trois-Rivières Lions
Tulsa Oilers
Wheeling Nailers
Wichita Thunder
Worcester Railers