ECHL Names 2024-25 All-Rookie Team

For the second straight year, a Jacksonville Icemen goaltender has earned a spot on the ECHL All-Rookie Team. Following in the footsteps of Matt Vernon, who received the honor in 2023-24, Justen Close continues the tradition of standout netminding in Jacksonville. As of Wednesday, Close holds a 16-10-2 record through 29 appearances. His 2.32 goals-against average and .923 save percentage are tied for sixth among all ECHL goaltenders, while his three shutouts are tied for fourth among rookie netminders. Calm, confident, and consistent in the crease, Close has quickly proven himself to be one of the league’s most reliable first-year goaltenders.

DEFENSEMEN

Parker Berge – Idaho Steelheads

Parker Berge has been a catalyst for the Idaho Steelheads’ success this season, blending defensive reliability with offensive instinct. He leads all rookie defensemen with 34 assists and ranks second among first-year blueliners with 40 points. His 13 power-play assists are tied for second among rookies, underscoring his importance on special teams.

The 6-foot, 181-pound left-handed shot is under a one-year AHL contract with the Ontario Reign. Before turning pro, Berge played parts of five seasons in the WHL from 2020 to 2024, collecting 100 points (18 goals, 82 assists) in 213 games split between the Regina Pats and Everett Silvertips. With a strong pedigree and a smooth adjustment to the pro game, Berge has quickly emerged as one of the ECHL’s most promising young defensemen.

Chas Sharpe – Cincinnati Cyclones

Chas Sharpe has brought an offensive edge to the Cincinnati Cyclones’ back end that’s hard to ignore. He leads all ECHL defensemen with 24 goals and tops rookie blueliners with 43 points. Sharpe’s 10 power-play goals not only lead all defensemen but are tied for seventh in the entire league. His scoring touch and aggressive style have made him one of the most dynamic defensemen of the season.

With his selection, Sharpe becomes the first Cyclones rookie to earn a spot on the ECHL All-Rookie Team since Justin Baudry in 2019-20. Baudry, also a rookie defenseman, received the honor after an 11-goal season with Cincinnati. Sharpe now joins a notable list of Cyclones players who have earned this recognition, including Myles Powell (2018-19), Justin Danforth (2017-18), David Pacan (2012-13), Mathew Sisca (2011-12), and David Desharnais (2007-08). His performance this season not only stands out statistically, but also places him firmly within the legacy of standout rookies in Cyclones history.

FORWARDS

Spencer Kersten – Orlando Solar Bears

In his first season with the Solar Bears, Spencer Kersten delivered a well-rounded offensive performance. He tallied 24 goals and 30 assists for 54 points, placing him third among all rookies. Kersten also tied for the rookie lead in shorthanded goals with three, showing his effectiveness on both ends of the ice. His +19 rating ranks eighth among rookies, reflecting his consistent presence in all game situations.

Kersten, 24, becomes just the second player in Orlando Solar Bears history to be named to the ECHL All-Rookie Team. He joins Joseph Gareffa, who earned the honor during the 2020-21 season after posting 21 points in 41 games. Kersten’s achievement adds to a growing tradition of developing high-impact talent in Orlando.

Kyler Kupka – South Carolina Stingrays

Kyler Kupka has been a key offensive driver for the South Carolina Stingrays this season, tying for the rookie lead with 27 goals and adding 26 assists for 53 points in 51 games. He is tied for the top spot among first-year players with 10 power-play goals and ranks fifth in power-play points with 17. His ability to consistently convert scoring chances—particularly on the man advantage—has made him one of the most dangerous rookies in the league.

Kupka, 25, is the seventh Stingray in franchise history to be named to the ECHL All-Rookie Team. He joins an accomplished list that includes Austin Magera (2023-24), Vitek Vanecek (2015-16), Ryan Zapolski (2012-13), Philipp Grubauer (2011-12), Mark Ardelan (2004-05), and Joey Tenute (2004-05). Kupka currently ranks third on the Stingrays in total points, further underlining his value and impact in his debut season.

Sloan Stanick – Tahoe Knight Monsters

Sloan Stanick has emerged as one of the ECHL’s most explosive rookies, leading all first-year players—and tying for fourth overall in the league—with 74 points, including 27 goals and 47 assists in 67 games. He also leads all rookies with 241 shots on goal, is tied for second with 13 power-play assists, and ranks fourth with 18 power-play points. Stanick’s relentless pace, sharp playmaking, and high-volume shooting have made him a driving force behind Tahoe’s success in its inaugural season.

His standout season has been recognized beyond year-end honors. Stanick was named to the ECHL’s 2024-25 Midseason All-Star Team in January and earned Rookie of the Month honors in December after posting 21 points (eight goals, 13 assists) over the course of the month. With a growing list of accolades and consistent production, Stanick has firmly established himself as one of the league’s premier newcomers.

Since the All-Rookie Team was first introduced in the 2000-01 season, it has spotlighted a long list of players who went on to establish standout professional careers. The 2024-25 class continues that tradition of excellence, offering a glimpse into the league’s emerging talent pool.

The ECHL will continue its award announcements Thursday with the release of the 2024-25 First and Second All-ECHL Teams.