Rush welcomes back forward Bowman

According to a Thursday announcement from the Calgary Flames’ ECHL affiliate, forward Parker Bowman has signed a contract to return to the Rush for the 2024-25 season. Bowman, who was initially brought to the Rush after his collegiate career ended in February, will enter his first full winter campaign in the professional ranks.

Bowman is the fourth forward signed by the Rush, joining teammates Tyler Burnie, Maurizio Colella and Simon Boyko. With defenders Zack Hoffman and Aaron Hyman and goalie Christian Propp joining the four forwards, the Rush now has seven signings.

Bowman, 25, became the first Rush player to sign a college contract for the 2023-24 season when he signed his contract on Feb. 27. He has become part of a late-season Rapid City offense that has gone 7-3-1 over its last 11 games.

The 6-foot-3, 180-pound Bowman scored four goals, including one on the power play, in 18 games played.

“I’m incredibly excited to be returning to the Rush for another season,” said Bowman. “I can’t wait to build on the momentum we created last year and continue to strengthen the culture around the Rush logo. I’m most excited to get back on the ice with the team and get to know the community and our incredible fans even better.”

Bowman, originally from Bracebridge, Ontario, spent his four-year collegiate career at Nipissing University in North Bay, Ontario, where he was captain for two consecutive seasons. Before heading to college, Bowman had an 88-point season with Powassan in the NOJHL, where he also wore the “C.”

He played two full seasons in the junior hockey league for the QMJHL’s Rimouski Océanic, the same team that Sidney Crosby grew up on.

“When we really started turning it around and giving it our all at the end of last season, that’s when guys like Parker came in,” said Scott Burt, Rush head coach and general manager. “He came highly recommended out of college. He’s a bulldog who’s not afraid to get in the dirty zone or throw the gloves. He took a lot of key draws and saved penalties for us.”

“My teams are built on hard work and effort, and Parker has that,” Burt added. “We’ll look to him to bring that energy every day.”

The 17th season of the Rush begins Oct. 19 in Tulsa. Rapid City’s home opener is scheduled for Oct. 25 and 26 against the Utah Grizzlies.