The Fort Wayne Komets of the ECHL Central Division announced that 2023-2024 ECHL All-Star and Fort Wayne native, forward Alex Aleardi, has been signed by the Komets ahead of the 2024-2025 season. Additionally, defenseman Ethan Ritchie has also signed with the Komets. These new signings are definitely exciting Komets fans for October, as this roster looks promising.
Alex Aleardi will be the 9th Fort Wayne native to play for the Komets in franchise history. His performance last season was exceptional, as he broke the Rapid City Rush’s record for points in an ECHL season with 79 points, consisting of 31 goals and 48 assists. With 244 ECHL games under his belt, he has scored 114 goals with 131 assists and 157 penalty minutes. Aleardi also has a strong AHL background, having played 92 games with Belleville, Springfield, and Charlotte, with 41 points (20g, 21a) to his name. Additionally, he played a crucial role in the Florida Everblades’ Kelly Cup win in the 2021-2022 season.
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“Alex is a great all-around player, and with the Central Division being one of the toughest in the league, this is a tremendous signing for the team,” said Head Coach Jesse Kallechy. “He brings skill, along with veteran leadership, and since he is a Fort Wayne native, he is also going to be a fan favorite.”
Komets Head Coach Jesse Kallechy on the signing of Aleardi
22-year-old Ethan Ritchie is another promising addition to the team. He previously played with the Providence Bruins in the AHL and the Maine Mariners last season, scoring eight goals and 12 assists with the Mariners. Before turning pro, Ritchie played 164 games in the OHL, scoring 89 points, 27 goals and 62 assists. His potential and skills as a 6’0 defenseman are expected to make a significant impact on the team’s defensive lineup starting in October.
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