Another key piece of the Stingrays’ defense is back in the mix. Romain Rodzinski, one of the ECHL’s most reliable two-way defensemen last season, has officially re-signed with South Carolina for the 2025-26 season.
A Midseason Trade That Changed Everything
When the Stingrays picked up Rodzinski from the Idaho Steelheads in February, it didn’t take long for him to become a core piece of the team’s identity. His smooth skating, shutdown plays, and ability to chip in on offense helped the Rays finish the season with the fewest goals allowed in the ECHL. He wasn’t just good—he was lights out.
After joining South Carolina midseason, Romain Rodzinski appeared in 27 games with the Stingrays, where he tallied eight goals and 13 assists for 21 points. He finished his stint with an impressive +29 rating and logged 22 penalty minutes.
Rodzinski also dominated the stat sheet in March, posting a ridiculous +24 rating in just 14 games, earning him ECHL Plus Performer of the Month honors.
Rodzinski’s arrival played a major role in the Stingrays’ 2025 playoff run. His ability to shut down opponents’ top lines and tilt the ice helped South Carolina lock up a postseason spot. Though his playoff run was brief, his defensive presence was a key reason the Stingrays were in the mix when it mattered.
The Road to Pro Hockey
Rodzinski’s hockey journey has taken him through the QMJHL, where he skated for the Québec Remparts, Cape Breton Eagles, and Chicoutimi Saguenéens. In his final junior year with Chicoutimi, he posted 22 points in 28 games. That same season, he led the Terrebonne Cobras in scoring with 56 points (14 goals, 42 assists) in just 27 QJHL games—a rare feat for a defenseman. He’s also logged time with the Idaho Steelheads, Concordia University, and now, once again, the South Carolina Stingrays.
“Unfinished Business”
Rodzinski made it clear he’s not coming back just to run it back—he wants more.
“I’m pumped to be back,” Rodzinski said. “Last year left us with unfinished business, and I’m here to help us get it done. It’s gonna be a fun year for the fans!” — South Carolina Stingrays, 2025
Building the 2025-26 Core
Rodzinski becomes the second player officially announced to the Stingrays 2025-26 roster, joining returning forward Josh Wilkins, who also re-signed with the team this offseason. With Wilkins and Rodzinski back, the Stingrays are already locking in key pieces of their leadership group and setting the tone for the year ahead.
Looking Ahead
With Rodzinski and Wilkins both officially on board, the Stingrays continue to build momentum for what’s shaping up to be an exciting 2025-26 season. The Stingrays’ 2025-26 season kicks off on Saturday, October 18th, with the Home Opener against the Norfolk Admirals. Puck drop is set for 6:05 p.m. at the North Charleston Coliseum.
Source: South Carolina Stingrays. (2025, July 16). Romain Rodzinski is back with Stingrays for the 2025-26 season.
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