With a reputation for smooth skating and solid defensive play, Defenseman Sebastian Dell'Elce's low point total during his rookie year last season wasn't a cause for concern for the Ice Dogs.
But, a goal and assist in Niagara's preseason opener against the Oshawa Generals last week is giving the team a look at what he's been working on during the offseason.
And, after being passed over in the 2026 NHL draft, he's hoping his hard work in becoming a better all-around defenseman will help him follow his older brother's footsteps. Francesco Dell'Elce went undrafted in both 2023 and 2024 before finally hearing his name called in 3rd round by the Colorado Avalanche in 2025.
Sebastian said his brother's journey has been a great inspiration for both himself and the team.
It helps that Dell'Elce is already a big family person. And, with all four of his grandparents being born in Italy, he said their National hockey team has been a great way to bring the family closer together.
Dell'Elce and the rest of the Ice Dogs start their regular season on the road September 18th against the Brantford Bulldogs, before their home opener on September 19th at the Meridian Centre against the Brampton Steelheads. You can hear every single second of IceDogs hockey this season on Niagara's New Country 89.1 with Reece Doumani on the call.
(Written by: DJ Blokzyl)