Reading, PA – The Reading Royals, proud ECHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers and Lehigh Valley Phantoms, signed D Adam Larkin to an ECHL contract Tuesday. Larkin played the final two games of the 2017-18 regular season with the Royals. Reading claimed the 23-year-old off waivers from Adirondack Apr. 3 after Larkin scored one goal and two points with the Thunder in his first seven professional games. He finished his hockey career at Yale in March 2017.

Quick Q+A with Larkin

Why did you decide to re-sign with Reading?
“The coaching staff made it an easy decision for me to come back to the Royals. Though I was only in Reading for a week, I was able to get a feel for what the coaching staff likes, how they expect to play the game and what role they expect me to play in their game plan. The coaching staff and I agreed that I would be a good fit in their system and I really look forward to working with Coach MacDonald and Coach Wellar.”

How did playing the last month of the ECHL season help you after finishing your career at Yale
I think that it was great for me to see the difference between college hockey and pro hockey. Certainly, because of the number of games played in a year, the game is played very differently. It was great for me to get a taste of the pro game so that I could get acclimated and adjust my training over the summer so that I’m prepared for the grueling, 72-game season.”

View 2018-19 Player Tracker

Larkin finished his senior season at Yale in March and triggered in a goal and seven points over 31 games. He made his professional debut with the Thunder on Mar. 9 vs. Manchester and earned his first professional goal and multi-point game Mar. 16 vs. Fort Wayne.

“Adam is coming off a very strong collegiate career and we’re looking forward to helping him develop in his first full season of professional hockey,” said Head Coach Kirk MacDonald. “It’s important he’s had a taste of the ECHL game and we are ready for him to continue that progression this season.”

In 2016-17, the Clarkston, MI native posted his best NCAA offensive numbers (3g, 11a) to lead the Yale blue line in scoring. Over four seasons with the Bulldogs, he earned five goals and 31 points in 126 games.

Prior to his collegiate career, Larkin skated for the USHL’s Muskegon Lumberjacks in 2013-14 (3g, 12a). He is the older brother of Miami University goaltender Ryan Larkin. Adam’s cousin, Dylan, is a forward for the Detroit Red Wings.

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

Season tickets and mini-plans now on sale
Learn more about full-season and 9-game, 12-game and 18-game mini-plans by calling 610-898-7825.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

Reading, PA – The Reading Royals, proud ECHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers and Lehigh Valley Phantoms, announced Tuesday former Assistant Coach Patrick Wellar has been named an Assistant Coach with the Hershey Bears (AHL). Wellar was the Royals Assistant Coach in 2017-18. The 34-year-old won the 2010 Calder Cup with the Bears and the 2013 Kelly Cup with the Royals. Wellar is one of four players to have his named engraved on the Kelly Cup three times.

“I would like to thank Kirk MacDonald and the entire Reading Royals staff for an amazing year,” Wellar said. “It has been great to learn from Kirk and I will always be grateful for him giving me the opportunity to be his assistant coach. It was amazing to have been able to coach an organization I care so deeply for.

“Finally, I can’t thank our players enough for having the honor of being their coach. We had the privilege to work with a special group of young hockey players and I wish them nothing but the best going forward. ”

Wellar was named Royals assistant coach in June 2017 after serving as an assistant for one season with the Cincinnati Cyclones in 2016-17. The native of Carrot River, SK logged 747 professional games (39g, 140a, 1223 PIM) over 12 campaigns. He skated for the Royals in a pair of seasons – 2008-09 and 2012-13.

During the Royals’ run to their first Kelly Cup, Wellar returned to Reading from Hershey during the 2013 Eastern Conference Finals. He contributed a pair of playoff goals and three points as the Royals triumphed to their first Kelly Cup over Stockton.

Full season packages and mini-plans for the 2018-19 season are now available. Call 610-898-7825 to learn more.

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

All three played in Reading last season   

Reading, PA – The Lehigh Valley Phantoms, AHL affiliate of the Reading Royals, announced Friday they have signed defenseman Frank Hora and forwards Michael Huntebrinker and Alex Krushelnyski to AHL contracts.

Need to know: Hora, Huntebrinker and Krushelnyski
– As a rookie last season, Hora topped the Royals in plus-minus (+23 rating).
– Huntebrinker was named to the 2018 CCM/ECHL All-Star Classic, led Royals rookies with 20 goals and was awarded 2017-18 Royals Rookie of the Year.
– Krushelnyski averaged more than a point per game (27 pts., 24 GP) for the Royals in 2017-18. He also scored a game-winning goal in the 5^th overtime vs. Charlotte in the Calder Cup Playoffs, the longest game in AHL history.

The Royals have signed five players this offseason, F Jack Riley, F Adam Schmidt, D Adam Larkin, D Nick Neville, and D Charlie Vasaturo. Reading will announce their sixth player signing Friday at 1:00 p.m.

View 2018-19 Royals Player Tracker

Hora stands 6-foot-2, weighs 209 pounds and skated in 62 games with the Royals last season (1g, 13a). The 22-year-old native of Cheektowaga, NY was Captain of the Kitchener Rangers in 2016-17. Over 73 professional games between the AHL and ECHL, Hora has registered one goal, 15 points and a plus-23 rating. The right-handed shot skated in one Kelly Cup Playoff game for the Royals last campaign after Reading received him on loan from Lehigh Valley Apr. 17.

Huntebrinker finished third on the Royals with 41 points last season (65 GP). The 5-foot-11, 195-lb., left-handed shot scored the only goal for Team North in the 2018 CCM/ECHL All-Star Classic. He skated in four Kelly Cup Playoff games for the Royals and registered his first professional hat trick vs. Adirondack on Dec. 30. He is a Minnesota State graduate.

Krushelnyski is entering his fifth professional season. In his first season with the Flyers organization, he combined to tally 16 goals and 36 points in 61 games split between Reading and Lehigh Valley. Krushelnyski registered two goals and four points for the Phantoms in 10 Calder Cup Playoff contests.

Season tickets and mini-plans are on sale by calling 610-898-7825 (PUCK).

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

6-2, 225-lb. forward helped lead Worcester to playoffs last season

Reading, PA – The Reading Royals, proud ECHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers and Lehigh Valley Phantoms, announced Friday forward Frank DiChiara (pronounced: dih-CHAIR-ah) has agreed to sign with the Royals on an ECHL contract. In 62 games with Worcester last season, the 6-foot-2, 225-lb. native of Ronkonkoma, NY registered nine goals and 23 points. He is the sixth player to sign with the Royals for 2018-19. The previous five completed the regular season with Reading.

“Playing Reading so many times last season with Worcester, I really liked the way the Royals played and I think their style of hockey fits my game and would give me a good chance to progress to the next level,” DiChiara said. “I’ve heard nothing but good things about the coaching staff, too. It was always a great atmosphere playing in Reading and I’m excited to play in front of a loud crowd and some amazing fans. I’m really looking forward to my second professional year.”

“Frank had a solid rookie season and was an important part of Worcester’s team last season,” said Kirk MacDonald, Royals Head Coach and General Manager. “He does a lot of things well and will add size and depth to our lineup.”

View 2018-19 Player Tracker

DiChiara’s rookie campaign included success against Reading; he tallied two game-winning goals against the Royals last season. He managed his first multi-goal game (2g) on Apr. 1 against Adirondack.

The Yale graduate skated for the Bulldogs from 2013-17, knocking in 30 goals and 72 points over 127 games. He missed four games in four NCAA seasons. In his senior season, DiChiara was fourth on the squad with 10 goals and ranked third with 21 points.

Before his collegiate career, DiChiara won the 2013 Clark Cup with the Dubuque Fighting Saints (USHL) and scored the Cup-clinching goal in overtime.

Season tickets and mini-plans are on sale by calling 610-898-7825 (PUCK).

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

Reading, PA – The Reading Royals, proud ECHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers and Lehigh Valley Phantoms, have agreed to terms on an ECHL contract with forward Bo Pieper (pronounced: PEE-per), Head Coach Kirk MacDonald announced Wednesday. Pieper completed his senior season at Quinnipiac in 2018 (11g, 18pts.) and was named 2018 ECAC Men’s Hockey Student-Athlete of the Year. He signed his first professional contract with Adirondack in March 2018 and skated in three games (4 PIM) for the Thunder.

Updated Royals Roster
Forwards: #14 Adam Schmidt, #21 Frankie DiChiara, #24 Bo Pieper, #29 Jack Riley
Defensemen: #7 Adam Larkin, #11 Charlie Vasaturo,  #18 Nick Neville

Quick Q+A with Pieper
Why did you sign with Reading?
“I signed with Reading because they consistently have a great team, excellent fan base and are known for developing players. I got a good feeling from the organization and it felt like the right place for me.”

How did your experience playing college hockey prepare you for the ECHL?
“At Quinnipiac, I played for the National Championship, in a couple of NCAA tournaments and had a lot of winning seasons. Being one of the go-to guys there put a lot of pressure on me to uphold that reputation and I will rely on those experiences as I transition into the pros.”

Coach’s Corner with Kirk MacDonald
“Bo comes highly recommended from coaches I’ve spoken with. He had a very consistent collegiate career and showed a lot of potential to make a strong impact with us next season.”

The 23-year-old native of Roseville, MN knocked in 32 goals and 65 points over 158 games at Quinnipiac. He missed two games in four collegiate seasons. Pieper stands 5-foot-11 and weighs 185 pounds. As a junior, he tied for the team lead with 13 goals. He scored the game-winning goal in the 2016 ECAC Tournament Championship vs. Harvard that catapulted Quinnipiac to the NCAA Tournament. The Bobcats made it to the school’s second-ever Frozen Four that season and fell to Yale in the National Championship game.

Before enrolling at Quinnipiac, Pieper skated for Coquitlam (BCHL) and won the 2014 Fred Page Cup.

Season tickets and mini-plans are on sale by calling 610-898-7825 (PUCK).

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

Reading, PA – Reading Royals Head Coach Kirk MacDonald announced Monday the team has signed defenseman Dan Milan (pronounced: MY-lin) to an ECHL contract for the 2018-19 season. Milan has played in the ECHL in each of his first six professional campaigns (313 GP). In 2017-18, he patrolled the blue line for Wheeling and accumulated 142 PIM along with a career-high five goals (16 pts.). The Detroit, MI native played against the Royals 11 times last season, recording a pair of assists and 25 PIM.  Find him on Twitter and Instagram @StylinMilan. Milan stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 190 pounds.

“I can’t wait to join a team that is known around the league for having a history of being so successful,” Milan said. “I’ve played against the black and purple for so long and it’s exciting to finally be on the other side.”

“We know Dan is capable of bringing a physical game with some offensive ability,” MacDonald said. “It’ll be nice to have him contributing for the Royals and we know he’s excited for the opportunity.”

Updated Royals Roster
Forwards: #14 Adam Schmidt, #21 Frankie DiChiara, #24 Bo Pieper, #29 Jack Riley
Defensemen: #6 Dan Milan, #7 Adam Larkin, #11 Charlie Vasaturo,  #18 Nick Neville

Milan is the first veteran player contract the Royals have signed this offseason (at least 260 professional hockey games, excluding goaltenders). Per ECHL rules, teams may carry four veterans on the active roster and reserve list during the regular season and Kelly Cup Playoffs.

Prior to last season in Wheeling, Milan spent 2016-17 with Fort Wayne and got his first experience playing in the Kelly Cup Playoffs (10 GP). Milan served as Wichita alternate captain in 2015-16. In the previous season, he delivered a career-best 17 points for the Thunder. Milan started his professional career in 2012-13 with the Florida Everblades after finishing a two-season stint in the QMJHL with Moncton and Victoriaville. He became the first player to make the jump directly from a Michigan high school hockey team to a Major Junior club.

Milan has accumulated at least 100 PIM in four of the last five seasons.

Season tickets and mini-plans are on sale by calling 610-898-7825 (PUCK).

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

Prepares for third ECHL season

Reading, PA – The Reading Royals, proud ECHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers and Lehigh Valley Phantoms, agreed Tuesday to a 2018-19 ECHL contract with forward Shane Walsh. He is the ninth player to sign with the Royals this offseason. The 26-year-old native of West Roxbury, MA split last season between Cincinnati (11 GP) and Greenville (33 GP), scoring seven goals and 22 points. Walsh skated for Utah, Cincinnati and Greenville in his first two professional seasons.

“I’m excited to be coming to a first-class organization and I’ve heard nothing but great things about the fan base and staff,” Walsh said. “I’m looking forward to arriving in town and getting to work.”

“We saw a lot of positives out of Shane as a rookie and when he joined Greenville last season,” said Head Coach Kirk MacDonald. “We are looking to help him continue his positive growth and feel he can be a contributor in Reading.

Updated Royals Roster
Forwards: #14 Adam Schmidt, #21 Frankie DiChiara, #24 Bo Pieper, #29 Jack Riley, #77 Shane Walsh
Defensemen: #4 Nick Neville, #6 Dan Milan, #7 Adam Larkin, #11 Charlie Vasaturo

A late-season offensive burst catapulted Walsh with Greenville last season. The Swamp Rabbits acquired him in Jan. 2018 from the Cyclones for future considerations. He scored five goals and 14 points over the season’s final month and a half (18 GP).

As a rookie, Walsh accumulated 19 goals and 45 points in 71 games split between Utah and Cincinnati. For his ECHL career, Walsh has skated in 115 games, scoring 26 goals and 67 points.

The UMass-Amherst graduate skated at the NCAA level from 2012-16. As a senior, Walsh led the Minutemen with 30 points (18G) in 36 games. Among notable achievements, he scored the game winning goal in the 5^th overtime of a 4-3 victory against Notre Dame to complete the longest game in NCAA Division I college history on Mar. 7, 2015. Walsh played in 133 games and tallied 36 goals and 67 points for UMass.

Season tickets and mini-plans are on sale by calling 610-898-7825 (PUCK).

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

Reading, PA – The Reading Royals, proud ECHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers and Lehigh Valley Phantoms, announced Wednesday the team has signed forward Brayden Low to an ECHL contract for the 2018-19 season. The Royals acquired Low from Wichita in June, finalizing a deal from Jan. 2 in which the Royals traded F Colin Martin to the Thunder for future considerations.

Low skated for Wichita and Quad City last season and combined for 18 goals and 42 points in 69 games. He scored one goal and three points with the Thunder in the final 11 games of the regular season. In four postseason contests, the 24-year-old recorded a goal and two points.

In 111 career ECHL games, the native of Richmond, BC has scored 21 goals and 49 points. Low stands 6-foot-1 and weighs 201 pounds.

Updated Royals Roster
Forwards (6): #9 Brayden Low, #14 Adam Schmidt, #21 Frankie DiChiara, #24 Bo Pieper, #29 Jack Riley, #77 Shane Walsh
Defensemen (4): #4 Nick Neville, #6 Dan Milan, #7 Adam Larkin, #11 Charlie Vasaturo

Season tickets and mini-plans are on sale by calling 610-898-7825 (PUCK).

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

“Reading has been my home,” says former team Captain   

Reading, PA – The Reading Royals, proud ECHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers and Lehigh Valley Phantoms, announced Sunday Mike Marcou has been named Royals assistant coach. Marcou was a defenseman with the Royals from 2014-17 and team Captain in 2016-17. He played five professional seasons and qualified for the Kelly Cup Playoffs in each campaign. Last season, the 28-year-old was as an assistant coach with the P.A.L. Junior Islanders of the NCDC. He replaces former Royals assistant coach Patrick Wellar, who agreed to become Hershey Bears assistant coach in July. Marcou joins Royals Head Coach Kirk MacDonald on the team staff.

“I’m very excited to be heading back to Reading,” Marcou said. “Reading has been my home for the past three years and I am looking forward to being back with the great fans. The fans and the organization have always treated me well and I’m very eager to continue the journey with the team.”

“We are thrilled to welcome back Mike to the Royals,” MacDonald said. “During his time playing in Reading, he demonstrated the type of leadership that will make him a successful professional coach. He will be a tremendous asset to our staff.”

Over three seasons patrolling Reading’s blue line, Marcou recorded 66 points, the fifth-most by a Royals defenseman in team history. He registered a career-high 35 points (6g) with the team in 2014-15. After starting the next season in Austria with the Graz 99ers, Marcou returned to the Flyers organization in Dec. 2015 and scored 19 points (4g) for Reading in 47 games.

He played in 14 Kelly Cup Playoff games in 2016 and Reading qualified for the Eastern Conference Semifinals. During his final professional season, the native of Kings Park, NY notched 12 points (2g) in 27 games before finishing the season with the Florida Everblades. In 272 ECHL games, Marcou put up 26 goals, 124 points and 93 PIM.

Marcou led the defensemen on his team in scoring three times (2012-13, 2013-14, 2014-15). He spent the first two seasons of his career with Greenville and competed in six career AHL games.

In 2012-13, his rookie season, Marcou topped Greenville blue liners with 25 points (6g) in 54 games and was selected to represent the Road Warriors at the 2013 ECHL All-Star Classic.

Prior to turning pro, Marcou played four seasons at the UMass-Amherst (2008-12). He was the team’s alternate captain in his junior and senior seasons. In his sophomore campaign, he was selected as the team’s co-Most Improved Player. In 117 collegiate games, Marcou recorded 43 points (17g) and 77 penalty minutes.

Season tickets and mini-plans are on sale by calling 610-898-7825 (PUCK).

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

2010 Muhlenberg High School graduate signs ECHL deal

Reading, PA – Forward Steven Swavely has signed an ECHL contract with the Reading Royals for the 2018-19 season, Head Coach Kirk MacDonald announced Monday. The Reading native has played in the Philadelphia Flyers organization since 2016 and signed after completing his senior season at the University of Maine. Swavely graduated from Muhlenberg High School in 2010. The Royals have signed 11 players this offseason and are proudly affiliated with the Flyers and Lehigh Valley Phantoms.

Swavely 3 Things You Need to Know:

• Last season: 13 goals and 29 points in 38 games for Royals last season, played in four Kelly Cup Playoff games. Scored three goals and five points for Phantoms in regular season and competed in three Calder Cup Playoff contests.
• The 26-year-old has 68 points (31g) in 78 games with Reading. With Lehigh Valley, Swavely has skated in 50 games (6g).
• Swavely captained Maine during his senior NCAA season and grew up playing locally for the Philadelphia Jr. Flyers and New Jersey Hitmen. He averaged 20 points a season while playing at Maine.

They Said It:
Steven Swavely: “Reading has been my home and it’s been a good place for me to play. The fans have accepted and loved me so it was a pretty easy decision. I have been fortunate to be in the Flyers organization for two years now so I’m happy to be back for a third season.”

Head Coach Kirk MacDonald: “It’s great to have Steven back for another season wearing purple. He puts up points and does a lot of little things well. We’re very pleased at how our team is coming together and Steven will be a big part of it.” 

Updated Royals Roster
Forwards (7): #9 Brayden Low, #12 Steven Swavely, #14 Adam Schmidt, #21 Frankie DiChiara, #24 Bo Pieper, #29 Jack Riley, #77 Shane Walsh
Defensemen (4): #4 Nick Neville, #6 Dan Milan, #7 Adam Larkin, #11 Charlie Vasaturo

Season tickets and mini-plans are on sale by calling 610-898-7825 (PUCK).

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

“We have some unfinished business to take care of this season,” Brown says

Reading, PA – The Reading Royals, proud ECHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers and Lehigh Valley Phantoms, announced Friday forward Tyler Brown has signed an ECHL contract with Reading for the 2018-19 season and been named a player-assistant coach. The 6-foot-2, 203-lb. native of Wasage Beach, ON joins the Royals coaching staff with Head Coach Kirk MacDonald and assistant coach Mike Marcou.

Brown scored five goals and 14 points with the Royals as alternate captain last campaign and was honored as the Royals’ 2017-18 Unsung Hero at the team’s Awards Banquet. He has played seven professional seasons.

They Said It
Tyler Brown: “Royals fans, I’m excited to be back in Reading for another season. I have a lot of good memories of last year but we have some unfinished business to take care of this season. With the group we have back, I’m confident we will be back making a run for the Kelly Cup again. I’ll be behind the bench sometimes this year taking on a coaching role and I’m honored to have the trust in the coaching staff to allow me to do so. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone again.”

Kirk MacDonald: “We are thrilled to have Tyler take on an additional leadership role as player-assistant coach with the Royals this season. He will help better our players on and off the ice. Plus, he has a good shot and is an important special teams player for us.”

Updated Royals Roster
Forwards (7): #9 Brayden Low, #12 Steven Swavely, #14 Adam Schmidt, #15 Tyler Brown, #21 Frankie DiChiara, #24 Bo Pieper, #29 Jack Riley, #77 Shane Walsh
Defensemen (4): #4 Nick Neville, #6 Dan Milan, #7 Adam Larkin, #11 Charlie Vasaturo

Brown, 28, has played 415 professional games and is the second veteran contract (at least 260 professional hockey games, excluding goaltenders) the Royals have signed this offseason. Per ECHL rules, teams may carry four veterans on the active roster and reserve list during the regular season and Kelly Cup Playoffs.

Before joining the Royals in summer 2017, Brown skated for the New York Rangers organization from 2014-17. He scored four goals and 21 points with Greenville in 2016-17 (48 GP) before moving to central Pennsylvania. Brown has made the playoffs three times in the last four seasons, including a run to the 2015 Calder Cup Playoffs’ Eastern Conference Finals with the Hartford Wolf Pack. The first five seasons of his professional career, Brown played in the AHL. He spent his opening three seasons with Adirondack, then the Flyers’ AHL affiliate.

In 284 AHL games, Brown has generated 25 goals and 59 points. Brown has scored 21 goals and 53 points in three ECHL campaigns (131 GP).

Season tickets and mini-plans are on sale by calling 610-898-7825 (PUCK).

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

Set for third season in Reading

Reading, PA – The Reading Royals, proud ECHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers and Lehigh Valley Phantoms, agreed Thursday to an ECHL contract with forward Chris McCarthy for the 2018-19 season.  McCarthy, who married his wife Haley in July, posted a career high in goals (22) and points (59) for the Royals last season. He ranked second on Reading in each category. The 27-year-old native of Collegeville, PA is entering his fifth professional campaign. He has scored at nearly a point-per-game clip in two seasons with the Royals (106 pts., 109 GP).

“I’m excited to get the season going and get back to Reading,” McCarthy said. “We’ve been putting in good work this offseason and look forward to seeing the fans soon.”

“Chris has been an invaluable part of the Royals over the last two seasons,” said Head Coach Kirk MacDonald. “He is versatile offensively and one of the best playmakers in the league when he’s at his best. Additionally, he is one of the important guys we have in the locker room as a veteran presence.”

The Royals have signed three Pennsylvania natives this offseason – McCarthy, Steven Swavely (Reading) and Adam Schmidt (Warrington).

Updated Royals Roster
Forwards (9): #3 Chris McCarthy, #9 Brayden Low, #12 Steven Swavely, #14 Adam Schmidt, #18 Tyler Brown, #21 Frankie DiChiara, #24 Bo Pieper, #29 Jack Riley, #77 Shane Walsh
Defensemen (4): #4 Nick Neville, #6 Dan Milan, #7 Adam Larkin, #11 Charlie Vasaturo

McCarthy centered Matt Willows and Matt Wilkins on the Royals’ top line last season and all three enjoyed career highs in goals and points. In the final 27 games of the ECHL regular season, McCarthy tallied ten goals and 36 points. He led the Royals with six points in the 2018 Kelly Cup Playoffs and has topped the squad in points during the last two postseasons.

In 172 ECHL games, the 6-foot-1, 207-lb. center has recorded 56 goals and 145 points. McCarthy has skated in 18 games with Lehigh Valley over the last two seasons. He played 54 games for Hartford (6g, 22 pts.) in 2015-16 before signing with the Flyers organization.

McCarthy split his first two professional seasons between Greenville and Hartford. Over 85 AHL contests, McCarthy has accumulated nine goals and 27 points.

While at the University of Vermont, McCarthy wore a letter with the Catamounts during his final three seasons. He was alternate captain his junior and redshirt junior campaigns and named Captain his redshirt senior season. During his final year on campus, McCarthy topped the 2013-14 squad with 42 points and the school qualified for the NCAA tournament. Prior to enrolling at Vermont, McCarthy played the 2008-09 season with the U.S. National Team Development Program.

Season tickets and mini-plans are on sale by calling 610-898-7825 (PUCK).

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

Reading has signed 11 forwards this offseason

Reading, PA – The Reading Royals, proud ECHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers and Lehigh Valley Phantoms, announced Monday forwards Dillan Fox and Brian Morgan have agreed to 2018-19 ECHL contracts with the Royals. Both played for Reading last season. Fox, a native of Hummelstown, PA, is the fourth player from Pennsylvania to sign with the Royals this offseason (Chris McCarthy, Adam Schmidt, Steven Swavely).

Reading has now come to terms on ECHL deals with 14 players this offseason. 

Need to know
Morgan registered nine goals, 18 points and a plus-13 rating for the Royals last season (42 GP) after joining the squad in Dec. 2017. He scored eight goals at Santander Arena.

Fox generated a goal and three points in ten Royals games. His only goal Jan. 14 vs. Manchester was rated the ECHL’s #5 goal of the 2017-18 season.

Updated Royals Roster
Forwards (11): #3 Chris McCarthy, #9 Brayden Low,  #12 Steven Swavely, #14 Adam Schmidt, #18 Tyler Brown, #21 Frankie DiChiara, #24 Bo Pieper, #28 Brian Morgan, #29 Jack Riley, #61 Dillan Fox, #77 Shane Walsh
Defensemen (4): #4 Nick Neville, #6 Dan Milan, #7 Adam Larkin, #11 Charlie Vasaturo

They Said It
Dillan Fox: “Getting an opportunity last season to play in Reading was awesome, to be able put on a jersey of a team I grew up around and followed was such an honor for me. The coaching staff and organization since day one has been a perfect fit, I’m excited being able to be back for another season and play in front of such a great fan base and carry on the great tradition Reading has in this league.”

Brian Morgan: “I am extremely excited to be coming back to an organization that is focused on winning and putting together a high-quality product. We have an excellent group of guys coming together this season and I am very excited to pursue a championship with this team. I can’t wait to play in front of the passionate Reading Royals fans. They make this an unbelievable spot to play in with how much they support our team.”

Head Coach Kirk MacDonald: “Both Dillan and Brian added some skill and depth for us at critical points last season. We know each can help us and hope they continue to have strong summers training.”

Fox has spent the majority of his two professional campaigns with Mississippi (SPHL). In 32 games last season for the RiverKings, the right-handed shot recorded 23 goals (10th in SPHL) and 34 points. A SUNY-Plattsburgh graduate (DIII), Fox tallied 30 goals and 96 points over four seasons at the collegiate level.

Morgan is entering his second professional season. He scored six goals and 12 points for Pensacola (SPHL) early last season before transitioning to the ECHL. He spent three NCAA seasons at Maine (17g, 32 pts., 103 GP) and transferred to UConn for his final amateur season. At UConn, Morgan tallied seven goals and 14 points. The 24-year-old native of Windham, NH stands 6-foot and weighs 180 pounds.

Both players skated in one Kelly Cup Playoff game for the Royals last season.

Season tickets and mini-plans are on sale by calling 610-898-7825 (PUCK).

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

Fan meet-and-greet with Hackman Sept. 8 at Santander Arena

Reading, PA – The Reading Royals, proud ECHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers and Lehigh Valley Phantoms, announced Tuesday Shawn Hackman has accepted the team’s President and General Manager position. Prior to joining Reading, Hackman served as Chief Revenue Officer of IRG Sports & Entertainment and was responsible for the commercial operations of four race tracks and the International Hot Rod Association. Hackman will lead Royals business operations, oversee front office activities and drive ticket revenue.

Fans can meet Hackman at the Royals Open House on Sat., Sept. 8 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. At the Open House, fans can select a seat for the 2018-19 season and learn more about Royals ticket packages.

Originally from Saylorsburg, PA, Hackman is a Penn State Graduate who has had two prominent experiences working in hockey. In 2014-15, the Phoenix Coyotes placed him as an on-site corporate sponsorship and business development leader while Hackman served as a vice president at Front Row Marketing. In 2009-10, the Quad City Mallards were named IHL Franchise of the Year when Hackman was the team’s Executive Vice President, General Manager and Alternate Governor.

“We are excited to have Shawn join the Royals family,” said Royals Owner Mr. Jack Gulati. “Shawn has shown a clear expertise in leading hockey teams and sports organizations throughout his career and this made him the perfect candidate for the position. His wealth of business skills will be essential in helping us fill Santander Arena and keeping Royals games fun and family-friendly.”

“I am thrilled to join the Royals and look forward to enhancing the strong bond the team has with the community,” Hackman said. “Reading is steeped in hockey tradition and I am honored to be a part of leading this team. I would like to thank Mr. Gulati and Royals CFO John Long for giving me the opportunity. We are excited to see everyone at our home opener on October 13.”

Hackman has a well-rounded background in sports business operations, serving as Chief Revenue Officer of IRG Sports & Entertainment in 2016-17, Senior Director of Business Development for the Kentucky Speedway (2015-16) and Vice President of Motorsports for Front Row Marketing Services from 2012-15. Among notable successes at Front Row Marketing, Hackman steered the Phoenix Coyotes’ corporate sponsorship team to develop new partnerships with companies that had never worked in sports or entertainment.

Hackman graduated from Penn State with a Bachelor of Arts in Business and Managerial Economics in 1993. In 1988, he graduated from Pleasant Valley High School.

He lives in Pen Argyl, PA with his wife, Lisa, and son, Luke.

Season tickets and mini-plans are on sale by calling 610-898-7825 (PUCK).

Royals Open House + 50% Off Team Store Discount Sept. 8, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
The Royals will host an Open House for all fans on Sat., Sept. 8 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., the perfect chance to select your seats for the 2018-19 campaign. The Lion’s Den Team Store will have a 50% off clearance sale and any fan that refers another fan who purchases tickets will receive a team store gift card. Come by to learn about Royals ticket packages, select a seat for the spot you’ve been considering and reserve your group night.

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

Reading, PA – The Reading Royals, proud ECHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers and Lehigh Valley Phantoms, announced Thursday the team signed forward Josh MacDonald to an ECHL contract for the 2018-19 season. A 23-goal scorer in 2016-17, MacDonald accrued ten tallies (19 pts.) in 31 games for Quad City last season. In Jan. 2018, he left the ECHL and agreed to a contract with Stjernen Hockey (Norway). Now returning to North America, MacDonald has posted double-digit goal totals in all three seasons he’s played professionally.

Royals Head Coach Kirk MacDonald (unrelated) has signed 12 forwards and 16 players to ECHL deals this offseason.

Updated Royals Roster
Forwards (12): #3 Chris McCarthy, #9 Brayden Low, #12 Steven Swavely, #14 Adam Schmidt, #18 Tyler Brown, #21 Frankie DiChiara, #24 Bo Pieper, #28 Brian Morgan, #29 Jack Riley, #61 Dillan Fox, #77 Shane Walsh, #86 Josh MacDonald

Defensemen (4): #4 Nick Neville, #6 Dan Milan, #7 Adam Larkin, #11 Charlie Vasaturo

2 Quick Quotes
Josh MacDonald: “I’ve heard nothing but great things about Reading. The Royals have a winning mentality, great coaching, excellent training staff and strong returning corps so I feel like it’s going to be a great opportunity.”

Head Coach Kirk MacDonald: “Josh has put together some good offensive numbers during his time in the ECHL and we hope he can do the same for us this season. He’s played with and against really talented players going back to his time in the OHL and are excited to see him compete against the tough North Division.”

After leaving Quad City midway through the 2017-18 campaign, MacDonald posted four goals and six points in Norway for Stjernen. The 24-year-old is a left-handed shot who stands 5-foot-11 and weighs 190 pounds.  He has registered 48 goals and 102 points over 145 ECHL games.

MacDonald has made the Kelly Cup Playoffs once; in 2017, he mounted six points (1g) in five games for Quad City.

As a rookie, the left-handed shot knocked in 11 goals and 22 points with Utah over 40 games. Following a mid-season switch to Rapid City, he completed the 2015-16 regular season with four goals and nine points in seven games.

MacDonald played four seasons in the OHL and completed his career with Peterborough. During his last OHL season, he scored 29 goals and 52 points. He spent his first three OHL seasons with Barrie.

Season tickets and mini-plans are on sale by calling 610-898-7825 (PUCK).

Royals Open House + 50% Off Team Store Discount Sept. 8, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
The Royals will host an Open House for all fans on Sat., Sept. 8 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., the perfect chance to select your seats for the 2018-19 campaign. The Lion’s Den Team Store will have a 50% off clearance sale and any fan that refers another fan who purchases tickets will receive a team store gift card. Come by to learn about Royals ticket packages, select a seat for the spot you’ve been considering and reserve your group night.

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

Reading, PA – Defenseman Nick Luukko and goaltender Branden Komm have signed AHL deals with the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, the Philadelphia Flyers top affiliate announced Friday. Luukko is preparing for his fourth professional season; all have been with the Flyers organization. The West Chester, PA native is one of four Royals to skate in at least 200 games with Reading, ranking fourth in team history with 202 games played.

Last campaign, Luukko served as Royals alternate captain, skated in 67 games and produced a career-high 21 points (5g). He also skated in one game for the Phantoms. Luukko has played in seven career AHL games.

The Royals acquired Komm from Manchester in Feb. 2018; he compiled a 6-2-2-0 record and two shutouts (2.06 GAA, .936 sv.%) in Reading. He is the only netminder in team history to begin his Royals career with back-to-back shutouts and four straight wins. The Williamsville, NY native is slated to begin his fifth professional campaign.

Five players that appeared for Reading in 2017-18 have signed AHL deals this summer with Lehigh Valley: Komm, Luukko, Alex  Krushelnyski, Michael Huntebrinker and Frank Hora. The Royals have signed 16 players to ECHL contracts this offseason and agreed to terms with forward Josh MacDonald Thursday.

A former 2010 sixth-round pick of the Flyers, Luukko has recorded 15 goals, 55 points, 94 PIM and a plus-26 rating in his ECHL career. He stands 6-foot-2 and weighs 205 pounds.

At the University of Vermont, Luukko mixed in eight goals and 35 points in 131 games. He signed with the Flyers following the conclusion of his collegiate career and played in six games for the Phantoms in 2014-15. Luukko won the 2011 Clark Cup with the Dubuque Fighting Saints (USHL) prior to enrolling at Vermont.

Komm netminded for four clubs in 2017-18 (29 GP) and registered a 14-9-4-0 mark, 2.60 goals against average and .917 save percentage. For his ECHL career, the 27-year-old is 47-38-9-2 with a 2.72 goals against average and .914 save percentage.

In 2016-17 with Idaho, Komm was tenth in the league with a 2.69 GAA and sixth in the circuit with a .917 save percentage. A Bentley University graduate, Komm began his professional career in 2014-15 and combined to play in 21 games for Evansville and Cincinnati. He stands 6-foot-1 and weighs 190 pounds.

Season tickets, group tickets and mini-plans are on sale by calling 610-898-7825 (PUCK).

Royals Open House + 50% Off Team Store Discount Sept. 8, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
The Royals will host an Open House for all fans on Sat., Sept. 8 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., the perfect chance to select your seats for the 2018-19 campaign. The Lion’s Den Team Store will have a 50% off clearance sale and any fan that refers another fan who purchases tickets will receive a team store gift card. Come by to learn about Royals ticket packages, select a seat for the spot you’ve been considering and reserve your group night.

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

Equipment Manager Jason “J Bird” MacDonald and Athletic Trainer Sean “Berbs” Berberich are hosts

Reading, PA – The Reading Royals, proud ECHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers and Lehigh Valley Phantoms, announced Friday the team will launch the “Bird and Berbs Podcast” on Sept. 4. The podcast will be hosted by Royals Equipment Manager Jason “J Bird” MacDonald and Sean “Berbs” Berberich. The show will take an inside-the-locker-room look at the Royals as they prepare for the 2018-19 season. Voice of the Royals David Fine will also be a contributor to the show.

Fans will be able to listen to the show through iTunes and Google Play, with additional listening links provided on social media and to the Royals Fan Email listserv.

“Jason and Sean are two of the most important people in the Royals organization,” Fine said. “We are really happy they will be able to share unique stories about their time with Reading. Be prepared for a few laughs along the way!”

MacDonald is entering his fourth season as the Royals Equipment Manager and has worked in hockey operations for 18 years. The Detroit, MI native was an assistant equipment manager with the NHL’s Florida Panthers from 2009-14. Prior to that, he was Head Equipment Manager for the Florida Everblades from 2006-09 and helped the team to the Brabham Cup in 2008-09. His ECHL teams have made the playoffs all six seasons he has been the head equipment manager.

Berberich starts his third season with the Royals in 2018-19. Before his time with Reading, Berberich was an athletic trainer with the Evansville Icemen. He also has hockey experience with the Washington Capitals and Charlotte Checkers. The Longwood University graduate has a master’s degree in Exercise Science and Health Promotion with a specialty in Performance Enhancement and Injury Prevention.

Season tickets and mini-plans are on sale by calling 610-898-7825 (PUCK).

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

Reading, PA – Reading Royals Head Coach Kirk MacDonald announced Tuesday the Royals have signed defenseman Ilya Nekolenko to a 2018-19 ECHL contract. A 25-year-old from Moscow, Russia, Nekolenko has played in the KHL for parts of the last six seasons, scoring two goals and six points in 91 games. He stands 6-foot-5 and weighs 220 pounds. Last season, Nekolenko appeared in 14 games for Yugra Khanty-Mansiysk. He has skated for six KHL teams but never played professionally in North America.

“Ilya has had a chance to get some playing time in one of the world’s best leagues and we expect there to be a transition as he comes to North America,” said MacDonald. “He will be put in a spot to succeed with the Royals and we look forward to watching him perform in a few weeks.”

Nekolenko has also skated in the VHL since 2014-15. In 2014, the left-handed shot won the MHL Championship with MHK Spartak Moskva. He represented Russia at the CCOA U20 Championships in 2011-12.

Updated Royals Roster
Forwards (12): #3 Chris McCarthy, #9 Brayden Low, #12 Steven Swavely, #14 Adam Schmidt, #18 Tyler Brown, #21 Frankie DiChiara, #24 Bo Pieper, #28 Brian Morgan, #29 Jack Riley, #61 Dillan Fox, #77 Shane Walsh, #86 Josh MacDonald

Defensemen (5): #2 Ilya Nekolenko, #4 Nick Neville, #6 Dan Milan, #7 Adam Larkin, #11 Charlie Vasaturo

Season tickets, group tickets and mini-plans are on sale by calling 610-898-7825 (PUCK).

Royals Open House + 50% Off Team Store Discount Sept. 8, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
The Royals will host an Open House for all fans on Sat., Sept. 8 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., the perfect chance to select your seats for the 2018-19 campaign. The Lion’s Den Team Store will have a 50% off clearance sale and any fan that refers another fan who purchases tickets will receive a team store gift card. Come by to learn about Royals ticket packages, select a seat for the spot you’ve been considering and reserve your group night.

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

Visit Mixlr.com/ReadingRoyals or download Mixlr App to listen

Reading, PA – The Reading Royals, proud ECHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers and Lehigh Valley Phantoms, announced Wednesday the team has launched the Royals Broadcast Network on Mixlr.com/ReadingRoyals and the Mixlr App. The network will host all Royals audio content, including games, Royals Radio Recon and the “Bird & Berbs Podcast.”

2 Ways To Listen
1) Visit: Mixlr.com/ReadingRoyals and hit the play or Listen Live button.

OR

2) Download: The Mixlr app for free at the App Store or Google Play and search “ReadingRoyals” to find Royals content.

Royals game broadcasts start 15 minutes before puck drop with Royals Pregame, hosted by David Fine and Pat Richards. A former USA Hockey Referee, Richards enters his 16^th season as Royals Color Commentator. Fine readies for his second season handling play-by-play duties. ECHL.tv will provide a video stream of all Royals games and provides subscription-based watching packages.

“The Royals Broadcast Network on Mixlr is a ‘one-stop shop’ for all Royals content,” Fine said. “The network will be a tremendous listening experience for our fans and we are excited for our first game broadcast.”

In addition to game broadcasts, the Jimmy G’s Railroad House in Sinking Spring hosts Royals Radio Recon Tuesdays during the season from 6:00-7:00 p.m. Check out daily specials from the kitchen and on tap, plus meet Royals players and coaches at the show.

Season tickets and mini-plans are on sale by calling 610-898-7825 (PUCK).

First Home Game Oct. 13
The Royals will open the 2018-19 regular season at Santander Arena on Sat., Oct. 13 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Worcester Railers. The home opener will feature a special Block Party and “Red Carpet” presentation for the team.

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.

Stop by Royals table, players and Coach MacDonald will be there

Reading, PA – The Reading Royals will take part in the 12^th Annual West Reading Fall Festival this Saturday, Sept. 15, from 12:00 – 9:00 p.m. Stop by the Royals table throughout the event for a family-friendly day with food, crafts, music and more.

Additionally, Reading native and Royals forward Steven Swavely, forward Dillan Fox and Head Coach Kirk MacDonald will be at the event to meet fans. From 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., fans can stop by Chatty Monks Brewing Company (610 Penn Ave., West Reading) to have drinks and food with Coach MacDonald, Swavely and Fox.

Need to Know
Royals table will be set up from 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Royals Head Coach Kirk MacDonald and forwards Steven Swavely and Dillan Fox will be upstairs at Chatty Monks Brewing Company from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Buy a drink, order some food and hang out with Coach, Steven and Dillan.

Season tickets and mini-plans are on sale by calling 610-898-7825 (PUCK).

About the Royals
The Royals have been owned by serial entrepreneur Jack Gulati since 2014 and are entering their 18^th ECHL season. Proudly affiliated with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Reading plays in the Santander Arena, located in downtown Reading, PA at 700 Penn Street. The Royals won the Kelly Cup in 2013, have made the playoffs in nine straight seasons and are four-time division champions.