South Carolina Stingrays Clinch Kelly Cup Playoff Berth with Win Over Allen Americans

Stingrays secure postseason spot for 30th time in 33 seasons with 5-3 victory

Mar. 23, 2026 at 10:18am

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The South Carolina Stingrays defeated the Allen Americans 5-3 on Saturday night, clinching a spot in the Kelly Cup Playoffs for the 30th time in 33 seasons. The Stingrays built up a two-goal lead early but had to hold off a late comeback attempt by the Americans to secure the victory.

Why it matters

The Stingrays' playoff berth continues the team's long tradition of success in the ECHL, as they remain one of the league's most consistent franchises. Making the postseason is a significant achievement for the Stingrays, who have been a fixture in the Charleston community for decades.

The details

The Stingrays jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first period on goals by Anthony Rinaldi and Kyler Kupka. However, the Americans battled back to tie the game at 2-2 in the second period. Rinaldi's second goal of the game put the Stingrays back on top 3-2, and Kupka added an insurance goal in the third period to make it 4-2. The Americans scored late to make it 4-3, but Casey McDonald's empty-net goal sealed the victory for the Stingrays.

  • The game was played on Saturday, March 19, 2026.
  • The Stingrays scored the opening goal just 3:14 into the first period.
  • Kupka's second goal came over 7 minutes into the third period.
  • The Americans pulled their goalie with 2:32 left in regulation.

The players

Anthony Rinaldi

A forward for the South Carolina Stingrays who scored two goals in the game.

Kyler Kupka

A forward for the South Carolina Stingrays who scored two goals, including the game-winning goal.

Casey McDonald

A forward for the South Carolina Stingrays who scored an empty-net goal to seal the victory.

Marco Costantini

The goaltender for the Allen Americans who made 17 saves in the second period to keep his team in the game.

Michael Gildon

A forward for the Allen Americans who scored a goal in the third period to make it a one-goal game.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The Stingrays will return to the North Charleston Coliseum on March 22nd to face the Allen Americans again for Pucks and Paws Day.

The takeaway

The Stingrays' playoff berth is a testament to the team's sustained excellence and commitment to the Charleston community over the past three decades. Their ability to overcome challenges and maintain a winning culture is a source of pride for local fans.