By: Andrew Mossbrooks, Cincinnati Cyclones
Cincinnati, OH – The Cyclones have re-signed rookie forward James Hardie to a standard player contract for the 2023-24 ECHL season. Hardie becomes the eighth player who skated with the ‘Clones last season to re-sign with the team.
The 21-year-old native of Barrie, Ontario, faced the choice of pursuing his education and going to college or chasing his dream to play professionally. For now, Hardie will put school on hold.
Hardie first signed with the ‘Clones in April of last season following his final year of junior hockey with OHL-Mississauga. He appeared in Cincinnati’s last two regular season games, then dressed for 10 of the team’s Kelly Cup Playoff contests, scoring a goal and an assist. Hardie’s goal was the last goal for the Cyclones in game four of the Central Division Finals.
“James is a young, offensively gifted player,” said Jason Payne, Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operations. “Now it’s time for him to take that leap into the pro hockey world and show that he can perform at this level. I think it benefits him having come up and spent a few weeks with us last season to get into some games. I’ve known James and watched him play since he was a little kid, and I’m excited to continue watching as he now matures into a professional here with the Cyclones.”
Hardie captained the team in his final season with Mississauga and led the way with 38 goals and an 82-point campaign through 66 games. The year prior, Hardie finished in a tie for 10th in the OHL with 41 goals. Hardie finished his junior tenure with 128 goals and 116 assists for 244 points in 255 games.
The 2023-24 Cyclones season starts on home ice with First Face-Off on Saturday, October 21st!
Call (513) 421-PUCK for tickets and more information, and stay on top of all the latest team updates and information on Facebook, Twitter (@CincyCyclones), and Instagram, along with our website,
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