After completing his rookie professional season with the AHL’s Hershey Bears, Ryan Hofer spent the majority of the 2024-25 season playing with the ECHL’s South Carolina Stingrays. This move allowed the young forward to gain more consistent ice time and further develop his game.
Hofer, a sixth-round selection by the Washington Capitals in the 2022 NHL Draft, embraced the opportunity and made significant contributions to one of the ECHL’s top-performing teams.
Hofer Shines with Stingrays, Earns ECHL Goal of the Year for 2024-25
In 52 games with the Stingrays, Hofer registered a solid 26 points, including 12 goals and 14 assists. His offensive production helped South Carolina secure the best regular-season record in the league. Hofer’s steady two-way play and consistent scoring proved valuable to the team and indicated his growth and potential within the Capitals’ system.
Ryan Hofer (NHL)Among Hofer’s 12 goals, one stood out above the rest. His highlight-reel tally on March 12 against the Greenville Swamp Rabbits was named the ECHL’s “Goal of the Year” for the 2024-25 season.
The play involved Hofer forcing a turnover while backchecking, picking up a loose puck, and executing an impressive between-the-legs move to score top-shelf against goaltender Kolby Hay. It was a moment of creativity and skill that captured league-wide attention.
Hofer Embraces ECHL Honor, Eyes Bigger Role with Hershey Bears Next Season
Speaking on the recognition, Hofer expressed both humility and excitement. “I’m super grateful and honored to be chosen for ECHL Goal of the Year,” he said in an interview. He noted that he wasn’t aiming to create a viral moment, but was thrilled to have pulled off such a play in a game and then be acknowledged for it. The award highlights his potential as a dynamic player capable of making game-changing plays.
Looking forward, Hofer is expected to play a larger role with the Hershey Bears during the 2025-26 season—the final year of his entry-level contract. With veteran centers Mike Sgarbossa and Riley Sutter departing for overseas opportunities, there may be a spot available for Hofer in the Bears’ bottom-six forward group.
Over his two years in the organization, Hofer has totaled eight points in 45 AHL games, and the coming season could be his chance to solidify a consistent role at the next level.
