Rylan Fellinger commits to Firebirds

Flint, Mich. – The Flint Firebirds announced today that defenseman Rylan Fellinger has agreed to an OHL scholarship and development agreement with the club.

“We’d like to welcome Rylan to the Firebird family,” General Manager Dave McParlan said. “His hard work this summer has paid off, as he really impressed us in training camp. We all knew he had a bright future, we just didn’t expect the future to be now.”

Fellinger was the Firebirds 13th round pick (255th overall) in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection. The 6-foot-3, 183lb. defenseman played for the U18 Soo Jr. Greyhounds of the Great North Midget Hockey League (GNML).

“I’m still in shock,” Fellinger said. “Even though it was a couple of days ago, it’s been amazing. I always thought of the 13th round as just a number and I put in the work this summer and just came to camp ready.”

The Wawa, Ont. native played in 25 games for the Jr. Greyhounds this year, producing 14 points (2-12-14), the third most among the team’s blueliners. He also finished tied 10th among all defensemen in the GNML and added six assists in five post-season matchups, helping lead the Jr. Greyhounds to a second place finish.

“There are so many people I want to thank,” said Fellinger. “My teammates and coaches have really helped me throughout the season. My friends and brothers have helped motivate me and give me someone to look up to. My dad coached me when I was just a little kid. There are so many people I’d like to thank. This is a dream come true.”

Fellinger plans on wearing number 65 for Flint this year and becomes the fifth prospect of the 2023 Priority Selection draft class to commit to the Firebirds.

“I can’t wait to play in front of the Firebirds fans,” he added. “Even at the camp, there were so many fans. I’m definitely ready to give them a performance and hopefully one day take that cup home.”