The Columbus Mavericks are proud to announce our affiliation with the Connecticut JR Rangers NCDC program. This direct pathway will open the door for our players to have access to the Rangers program, as well as their camps, and contact with their NCDC scouting and coaching staffs.

“With the changing landscape in collegiate and junior hockey, we feel that it’s the right time to foster and grow a relationship with an NCDC partner who shares the same vision as we do.” Commented Mavericks Head Coach and GM Joey Recktenwald. “As more NCDC teams join the league, we’re seeing a trend where these clubs have established partnerships or common ownership with Premier teams. We don’t want our players to be waiting in line behind some of those players, and missing out on opportunities for call-ups as more and more teams shift to an affiliate based structure.”

The Mavericks have a considerable track record for developing players and will continue to focus efforts towards finding the next wave of talent. Columbus was the only Tier 3 team in the nation last year that had active alumni on rosters in the NCDC, as well as in the USHL, NAHL, and OJHL. The 2024-25 Mavs team won 27 games, and did so with more players under the age of 18 than age outs. 10 players born in 2007 or 2008 appeared in games for the team, most of whom played significant roles. In addition to this season’s success, the Mavs saw three former players make NCAA hockey commitments. Jack Hamilton with D1 Miami, as well as Tyler Isherwood at D3 Curry College, and Anton Petrovskiy at D3 Lebanon Valley.

“The Rangers felt like the ideal fit for us," added Recktenwald. "I've enjoyed a longstanding strong working relationship with Mike Stanaway for many years, and I'm excited to expand upon this. This partnership will also allow us to further enhance the Rangers NCDC scouting efforts in the Midwest, Canada, and Europe, regions where we already have a strong presence and exceptional scouting networks. CJR’s impressive new facility and their commitment to providing a first-class player experience align perfectly with our own. Our goal is to establish a clear and effective pipeline to Tier 2 hockey

Rangers Head NCDC Coach Mike Stanaway shared a lot of the same sentiment: “I couldn't be happier to be working with Coach Recktenwald and the Columbus Mavericks. The passion he has for the success of his players completely aligns with our values here at CJR. What he has done in a short time with the Mavericks is remarkable and I can't wait to see the impact his players make at the NCDC level.”

The Mavericks and Rangers both kick off their seasons in September and look forward to a successful partnership.