09/10/2026
The Chicago Crush enter the 2026-27 season celebrating their fifth anniversary, with veteran Head Coach Phil Bushbacher once again behind the bench and an experienced returning core looking to make its mark in the Great Lakes Conference.
Leading the way will be captain Jack Martino, who returns for his fourth season with the Crush organization. Martino brings experience, leadership and production to the lineup after recording 18 points in 31 Premier games last season. A player who has worked his way through the organization and established himself at the Premier level, Martino will be counted on to set the standard both on and off the ice.
Up front, Gio Rizzo is a player to watch. The young forward brings speed, quick hands and a quick, deceptive release that makes him dangerous when he gets time and space. Joey Bledsoe returns after scoring 15 goals at the Premier level last season and gives Chicago another proven offensive threat with the ability to finish around the net.
Joshua Yeates is another returning player expected to take on a larger role after producing 12 points in just 19 Premier games last season while also putting up 26 points in 26 games at the Elite level. His ability to create offense and produce at both levels makes him an intriguing part of the Crush attack.
Brandon Herschbach brings additional experience and offensive ability to the lineup, while Jorge Piraquive enters the season with valuable junior experience already under his belt. Both will be looked upon to take another step and add depth to a forward group that has a good mix of returning players and young talent.
On the blue line, Hunter Pope is coming off an impressive season in which he recorded 30 points in 33 Elite games before adding seven points in 14 Premier appearances. A mobile, offensive-minded defenseman who can move the puck and contribute from the back end, Pope will have an opportunity to take on a significant role for Chicago this season.
The Crush should also have plenty of competition in goal. Returning goaltenders Jack Allivato and Param Chawla give Chicago experience and familiarity in the crease, while newcomer Daniel Federl adds an exciting young international prospect to the mix. The 2009-born Slovak goaltender comes to Chicago after developing in the Slovak youth system with Ružinov and HC Lamač. Federl is an athletic, hybrid-style goaltender who will be making the transition to the North American game and gives the Crush another talented option between the pipes.
With the addition of the Chicago Union at the NCDC level, the Crush now have another important development opportunity directly within the organization. Players who perform and earn the opportunity will have the chance to be evaluated for advancement, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to developing players for the next level.
As the Crush celebrate five years, Bushbacher has a group that combines veteran leadership, returning junior experience and an exciting collection of young players. With Martino leading the way, proven production returning up front, Pope poised for a bigger role on the blue line and a deep goaltending group, the Crush enter 2026-27 ready to compete in what should once again be a challenging Great Lakes Conference.
