Former Bemidji State Defenseman Mitch Wolfe Signs ECHL Deal with Cincinnati

Wolfe becomes the fourth Bemidji State player from the 2025-26 season to turn pro.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:21pm

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting in a cubist style, breaking down a hockey game or match into sharp, overlapping geometric planes in navy blue, forest green, and crimson red, conveying the dynamic energy and movement of professional hockey.The geometric, cubist-inspired illustration captures the dynamic energy and movement of a professional hockey game, reflecting the career transition of Bemidji State players to the ECHL.Cincinnati Today

Mitch Wolfe, a former defenseman for the Bemidji State men's hockey team, has signed a contract to play for the Cincinnati Cyclones of the ECHL, the minor league affiliate of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Wolfe, a 6-foot, 190-pound left-shot defenseman, played four seasons with the Beavers, collecting five goals and 23 assists in 134 games.

Why it matters

Wolfe's signing continues the trend of Bemidji State players making the jump to the professional ranks, with three of his former teammates also inking ECHL deals this offseason. This is a testament to the program's ability to develop talent and prepare players for the next level.

The details

As an alternate captain, Wolfe was a two-time CCHA Defenseman of the Week, once as a sophomore and again as a senior. Prior to his college career, Wolfe spent two seasons in the United States Hockey League with the Des Moines Buccaneers, scoring eight goals and 26 assists in 104 games.

  • Wolfe signed his ECHL contract with the Cincinnati Cyclones on Tuesday, April 17, 2026.
  • Wolfe played four seasons with the Bemidji State Beavers from 2022-23 to 2025-26.

The players

Mitch Wolfe

A 6-foot, 190-pound left-shot defenseman who played four seasons with the Bemidji State Beavers, collecting five goals and 23 assists in 134 games.

Reilly Funk

A former Bemidji State player who has signed an ECHL contract with the Toledo Waleye, leading all BSU pro signings in scoring with two goals and four assists in 17 games.

Kirklan Irey

A former Bemidji State player who has signed an ECHL contract with the Atlanta Gladiators, scoring three points in 11 games.

Vince Corcoran

A former Bemidji State player who has signed an ECHL contract with the Worcester Railers, scoring his first pro goal on April 10 and recording three points in seven games.

Hudson Thornton

Wolfe's defensive partner at Bemidji State, who led the team in time on ice at 20:48 per game.

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What they’re saying

“Wolfe became the fourth Bemidji State men's hockey player from the 2025-26 season to sign a pro contract.”

— Jared Rubado, Author

What’s next

Wolfe will look to make an immediate impact with the Cincinnati Cyclones as he begins his professional hockey career in the ECHL.

The takeaway

Mitch Wolfe's signing with the Cincinnati Cyclones continues the trend of Bemidji State players making the jump to the professional ranks, showcasing the program's ability to develop talent and prepare players for the next level of competition.