Journeyman Player & Assistant Coach in AHL Brings Veteran Experience to the Team

Jeff Walker, Entertainment & Sports Writer

The South Carolina Stingrays first took to the ice back in 1993, becoming the first professional hockey team in the state. Over their 31 year history they have become one of the most dominant franchises in the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL), securing a spot in post seasons all but two years, while winning the coveted Kelly Cup in 1997, 2001, and 2009.

With so many northerners, mid-westerners, and transients coming in and out of Charleston or relocating here on a permanent basis, the SC Stingrays continue to be a huge attraction. While they often filled 9K plus seats in the early years, the Stingrays still continue to draw over 5K fans during each and every home game, quite frankly because professional hockey is exciting, action packed, and in your face fun.

Affiliated with the Washington Capitols (NHL) and the Hershey Bears (AHL) the Stingrays have seen many players advance through the ranks, with over two dozen making it to the National Hockey League, including three playing for Stanley Cup-winning teams, Rich Peverley (Boston Bruins in 2011), and Braden Holtby and Philipp Grubauer for the Washington Capitals in 2018.

Over their run the Stingrays have seen their share of coaches as well, with Jared Nightingale introduced as the new Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operations for the 2024-25 season. Nightingale a former player and assistant coach becomes the 12th Head Coach in franchise history. 

Having skated in college for Michigan State, Nightingale a career defenseman enjoyed a rather long career (2007-18) in both the ECHL and the American Hockey League, playing in over 470 games during his time on the ice. Enjoying a journeyman career Nightingale has two specific goals for the Stingrays this season.

"I just want to put them in situations where they can succeed. We have all different types of players here, but my big message to them is to be yourself." He adds, "I want to try to help them become the best version of themselves they can be."

Having spent so many years in the AHL Nightingale doesn't see much difference in the ECHL regarding skill level. "It's the same approach. I told the players when I was a player in this league, the best coaches I had treated it like an American league club or the NHL."

Nightingale knows what many of the players under him are hoping to achieve, and he hopes to help facilitate their progression. "We want these guys to move on, move up the ladder, and hopefully that's the environment I'm creating here."

With several players returning on the Stingrays, Nightingale says he'll lean on their experience while sharing his own. "It's important to talk about the guys that have been here before, guys that have been around. Any good team you need good leaders. I don't think you necessarily have to be a veteran for that, but with my experience I do want to be a sounding board for the players."

Nightingale understands the impact the team has had on greater Charleston as well. "I know as a player, the Stingrays and their support, and their overall history is great. We want to be a team that's really humble and interacts with the community. I told the players early on, we are blessed to be on a platform where we can be positive role models, and I hope to encourage that as their coach."

Prior to coming to Charleston Nightingale spent the past three seasons as an assistant coach in Rockford IceHogs, an AHL affiliate for the Chicago Blackhawks. According to Stingrays website team President Rob Concannon knew Nightingale was the right choice not long after they met. "After spending a few days with him here in Charleston and getting to know each other, it became clear to me that he was a great fit as our new Head Coach. Jared is a natural leader with a high hockey IQ who understands the details of the game that make teams successful."

After opening the season (Oct 19th) at home with an exciting 4-3 overtime win over the Orlando Solar Bears, the Stingrays travelled to Greenville dropping a close 3-2 decision to the Swamp Rabbits. But the season is early, as the Rays host Greenville Saturday Oct 26th with another four months to go.

For a full schedule of home games visit https://stingrayshockey.com/#schedule  and to keep up on all things related to the South Carolina Stingrays including news, promotions, and team events visit https://stingrayshockey.com/