The South Carolina Stingrays are continuing to shape their 2025–26 roster, and their latest move adds a captain straight out of the NCAA ranks. Forward Stan Cooley, a 23-year-old centerman from Ottawa, Ontario, is officially turning pro after spending the last four seasons with Colorado College. Known for his defensive reliability and steady presence on the ice, Cooley joins South Carolina ready to take on the challenge of the ECHL’s South Division.
Head Coach Dave Warsofsky explained why Cooley stood out to the Stingrays staff:
“Coming off a successful college career and serving as captain at Colorado College, Stan has shown he’s a smart, reliable, two-way centerman who can be trusted in all situations. He’s a player our staff has followed closely, and we believe his leadership, work ethic, and complete game will translate well at the pro level. We’re looking forward to watching him take this next step in his career with us” (South Carolina Stingrays, 2025).
Four Years in the NCHC
Cooley carved out a reputation at Colorado as both a dependable centerman and a leader in the locker room. He wore an “A” in his sophomore and junior years before being named captain as a senior in 2024–25. That season, he suited up in all 37 games, tying his career high with six goals and adding six assists for 12 points.
His most productive year came in 2022–23, when he ranked third on the Tigers in scoring with 20 points (6g–14a) across 38 games. By the end of his college career, he had appeared in 148 contests, recording 23 goals and 41 assists for 64 points. He also made a mark off the ice, earning recognition as a four-time NCHC Distinguished Scholar-Athlete (Colorado College Athletics, 2025).
Building Blocks from Junior Hockey
Before reaching the NCAA level, Cooley sharpened his skills in both Canada and the United States. In 2020–21, he wore the “C” for the Lincoln Stars (USHL), tallying 19 points (7g–12a) in 49 games. Earlier, he developed with the Spruce Grove Saints (AJHL), where he notched 63 points in 112 games and was named to the league’s All-Rookie Team in 2018–19.
His early career also included a standout moment on the national stage, helping the Notre Dame Hounds win the Telus Cup, Canada’s U18 national championship, in 2018. That combination of championship experience and leadership roles gave him the foundation that has carried through every stage of his hockey journey.
Ready to Hit the Ice in Charleston
Now, Cooley’s next chapter begins in North Charleston. The rookie forward is eager to test himself against professional competition.
“I’m super excited to join the Stingrays,” he said. “I’ve heard nothing but great things about Charleston and the Stingray organization. I can’t wait to get down there and get things going!” (South Carolina Stingrays, 2025).
With his track record of leadership and experience handling tough minutes in college hockey, Cooley is expected to be a strong addition to the Stingrays lineup as they prepare for another push in the always-competitive South Division. Fans won’t have long to wait to see him in action, with the 2025–26 season now just weeks away.
SOURCES
Colorado College Athletics. (2025). Stanley Cooley – 2024-25 men’s ice hockey roster. Colorado College Athletics.
South Carolina Stingrays. (2025, September 3). Cooley set to begin pro career with Stingrays [Press release].
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