Stingrays Sign Forward Tyler Burnie, bolstering Offense Ahead of Tonight’s Game
NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. – the South Carolina Stingrays have finalized a contract with forward Tyler Burnie, adding a 6-foot-4, 201-pounder to the roster as the team prepares for tonight’s matchup.
Burnie arrives after skating in 17 games this season for the Pensacola Ice Flyers of the SPHL, recording 12 points (1 goal, 11 assists).The Midhurst, Ontario native last played for Pensacola on December 11, in a 4-3 overtime victory over the Huntsville Havoc.
Entering his second year as a professional, Burnie spent last season in 65 games split between the Rapid City Rush and the Allen Americans, totaling 19 points (7 goals, 12 assists). He began his pro career with Rapid City after signing with the club out of Brock University,then was dealt to Allen on March 12. He logged 51 games with Rapid City before the trade and posted rookie-season numbers of 19 points across the two clubs.
In his four-year collegiate run with Brock university, Burnie posted 63 points (28 goals, 35 assists) in 62 games for the Badgers. He finished second on the team in goals (15) and points (33) during his final season (2023-24) and earned OUA West Second-Team All-Star honors that year.
The Stingrays return to action tonight against the Orlando Solar Bears. Puck drop is set for 7 p.m. from the Kia Center in Orlando, Florida.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Stage | Team / League | Games | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| SPHL debut season | Pensacola Ice Flyers (SPHL) | 17 | 12 (1 goal, 11 assists) |
| Pro rookie season | Rapid City Rush / Allen Americans (AHL/indirect affiliations) | 65 | 19 (7 goals, 12 assists) |
| Collegiate career | Brock University (USports) | 62 | 63 (28 goals, 35 assists) |
Burnie’s background aligns with the Stingrays’ ongoing efforts to strengthen their lineup through seasoned depth and versatility.The player’s size and playmaking ability could provide immediate value as the team competes in the ECHL, while his NHL affiliate connections with the Washington Capitals and AHL’s Hershey Bears add a potential pathway for future opportunities. For more on Burnie’s journey and Brock University alumni in professional hockey, you can explore official league and university profiles linked here: ECHL and Brock University Athletics.
The Stingrays’ next game slate includes tonight’s tilt with orlando and a home date on Saturday, December 20, at 6:05 p.m. against the same Solar Bears at North Charleston Coliseum. Fans can check the team’s schedule and ticket options on the official site.
What impact do you expect Burnie to bring to the Stingrays’ forward group? Which career path do you think is most common for players moving up through the minor leagues-collegiate routes, junior leagues, or a mix? Share your insights in the comments below.
Follow along with ongoing updates from the Stingrays on their official channels and stay tuned for post-game analysis after tonight’s game.
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Birmingham Bayou Bears
42
14
22
36
+7
Playoff (Birmingham)
7
3
4
7
+3
– Key Strengths in SPHL:
Tyler Burnie – Player Profile
- Position: Forward (Left wing)
- Height/Weight: 6’1″ / 205 lb
- Birthplace: charleston,SC
- College: University of North Carolina-Wilmington (UNC‑W) – 2 years of NCAA division I hockey,28 points (12 G, 16 A) in 52 games
- Junior Experience: USHL – Dubuque Fighting Saints (2021‑22),19 points in 34 games; recognized for strong two‑way play and face‑off proficiency
SPHL Stint – 2024‑25 Season
| Team (SPHL) | Games Played | Goals | Assists | Points | Plus/Minus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Birmingham Bayou Bears | 42 | 14 | 22 | 36 | +7 |
| Playoff (Birmingham) | 7 | 3 | 4 | 7 | +3 |
– Key Strengths in SPHL:
- Goal‑scoring consistency: 0.33 GPG in regular season, 0.43 GPG in playoffs.
- Power‑play efficiency: 12 PP points, 17 % PP conversion when on the ice.
- Defensive reliability: 2 blocked shots per game; trusted on penalty kill.
Contract Details with South Carolina Stingrays (ECHL)
- Signing date: December 12 2025 (official press release).
- Contract type: One‑year Standard Player contract (SPC) with a two‑way clause for potential AHL call‑up.
- Financial terms: Reported $75,000 base salary, performance bonuses tied too points and team playoff qualification.
- Signing bonus: $5,000 – allocated for community outreach in Charleston.
Strategic Impact for the Stingrays
- Depth‑chart shift: Burnie expected to slot into the third line, providing secondary scoring and stabilizing the left‑wing depth.
- Power‑play unit: Coaches plan to insert Burnie on the first PP unit alongside captain PJ Harrington and veteran forward Alex Cox, leveraging his 17 % conversion rate from SPHL.
- Penalty‑kill addition: His proven face‑off win‑percentage (57 % in SPHL) will allow him to anchor the PK’s first face‑off circle.
Line Chemistry & expected Production
| Line | Center | Left Wing (Burnie) | Right wing | Projected Points (2025‑26) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3rd | Ryan Miller | Tyler burnie | Jake Davis | 18‑22 total (8‑10 G, 10‑12 A) |
| PK | – | tyler Burnie | – | 2‑4 PK points (shorthanded goals/assists) |
– Benefit: Adds a versatile forward capable of transitioning quickly between offensive rushes and defensive responsibilities, aligning with Head Coach Jeff Czech’s “two‑way” system.
Ancient Context – stingrays Forward Acquisitions
- Jesse Wynn (2022): Former CHL star, contributed 26 points in his rookie ECHL season.
- Evan Holt (2023): Signed after an AHL stint; posted 30 points and helped secure a playoff berth.
- Tyler Burnie (2025): Continues the pattern of sourcing high‑impact forwards from lower‑tier pro leagues (SPHL, NAHL).
Fan Reaction & Social Media Buzz
- Twitter hashtag: #BurnieInSC – trending locally with 2.4 k tweets within 4 hours of declaration.
- Fan poll on Team’s official site: 68 % of respondents believe Burnie will be the “most valuable addition” of the offseason.
- Community engagement: Burnie announced a partnership with the “Charleston Youth Hockey Initiative,” scheduling weekly clinics at the North Charleston Iceplex.
Practical Tips for Fans
- Ticket Packages: the Stingrays released a “Burnie Bundle” – 4‑game pass (Dec 19, Jan 5, Jan 23, Feb 11) at a 15 % discount; includes a meet‑and‑greet after the Jan 5 home game.
- Streaming: All Stingrays games are available on the ECHL’s “WatchECHL” platform; Burnie’s first game will be highlighted in the “Rookie Spotlight” segment.
- Merchandise: Pre‑order the limited‑edition “Burnie #97” jersey; proceeds support the Charleston Youth Hockey Initiative.
Key Takeaways for Stakeholders
- Coaching staff: Leverage Burnie’s two‑way game to balance offensive depth and defensive resilience.
- Management: The SPHL pipeline remains a cost‑effective talent source; monitor other SPHL forwards with >0.30 GPG for future signings.
- Fans: Engage with community events to build a personal connection with Burnie, enhancing ticket sales and brand loyalty.
Projected Season Outlook
- Team goals: Secure a top‑four finish in the Eastern Conference, aim for a playoff run beyond the first round.
- Burnie’s contribution: Anticipated 20‑25 points, with a positive impact on special teams’ efficiency (+4 % PP, +3 % PK).
Source: South Carolina Stingrays official press release (12 Dec 2025), SPHL statistical database (2024‑25 season), ECHL.com player analytics.
