via Sarah Hobday
The South Carolina Stingrays have announced they have signed Rockville, Md. native Mike Chen to a contract for the 2018-19 season.
Chen appeared in 11 games for the Stingrays last season after earning a call-up from SPHL Knoxville. Chen scored two goals, including one from the “Ovi spot” and had two assists for the Rays.
“When it comes to pro hockey, it’s not just the hockey you have to worry about,” Chen said. “You have the community, how you present yourself and how you interact with fans. Everything is a bit more magnified so I think the first year, coming from college, you don’t have to worry about that stuff too much but coming back for my second season, it’s nice coming in and having a gist of what’s going on.”
“This was my #1 spot to come back if I were to play in the ECHL and I’m relieved and happy that it all worked out,” Chen said. “Now I can focus on training in the summer and get after it next year. Having my first year under my belt, I can hit the ground running instead of having to play catch-up.”
