Two IceRay Legends Return to the Coastal Bend for Ceremonial Puck Drop
CORPUS CHRISTI, TX — The Corpus Christi IceRays are proud to welcome two familiar faces back to the ice tonight as former IceRays stars Brad Wingfield and Geoff Bumstead return to Corpus Christi to take part in a special ceremonial puck drop for the team’s home opener against the El Paso Rhinos.
The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. at the Hilliard Center, with doors opening at 6:00 p.m. The first 1,500 fans through the door receive a 2026-27 IceRays schedule magnet.
Wingfield and Bumstead were key members of the original Corpus Christi IceRays teams that helped establish the franchise as a force in the Western Professional Hockey League and later return to play in the Central Hockey League in the coastal bend.
Wingfield, a native of Gibsons, British Columbia, played three seasons for the IceRays from 1998-99 through 2000-01. Then returning for one season in 2003-04. During his time in Corpus Christi, the physical forward recorded 48 goals and 72 assists for 120 points in 231 games to go along with 1,086 penalty minutes. Tonight’s homecoming will carry an even more special meaning for Wingfield and the IceRays faithful, as Brad’s son Jacob Wingfield will suit up for Corpus Christi wearing number #28.
Bumstead, a Winnipeg, Manitoba native, enjoyed an outstanding run with the IceRays from 1998-99 through 2000-01. In 206 games with Corpus Christi, Bumstead tallied 88 goals and 153 assists for 245 points. His 1999-2000 season was particularly memorable, as he won the scoring title in the WPHL after leading the league in both assists (86) and points (120).
Together, Wingfield and Bumstead were part of an important era in IceRays history, helping build the foundation of hockey in Corpus Christi and becoming fan favorites along the way.
Now, more than two decades later, the IceRays are thrilled to welcome them home.
“We are incredibly excited to have Brad and Geoff back in Corpus Christi for our home opener,” said IceRays CEO Steve Donner. “They are an important part of the history of this organization, and having them drop the puck tonight is a great way to connect the past, present and future of IceRays hockey.”
Tonight’s home opener promises to be a celebration of IceRays hockey, both past and present, as Corpus Christi begins another season in front of its home fans.
HOME OPENER DETAILS
Corpus Christi IceRays vs. El Paso Rhinos
Puck Drop: 7:05 p.m.
Doors Open: 6:00 p.m.
Special Giveaway: First 1,500 fans receive a schedule magnet
Location: Hilliard Center — Corpus Christi, Texas
Fans are encouraged to arrive early, secure their schedule magnet and join the IceRays in welcoming back two of the franchise’s most memorable early-era players.
About Corpus Christi IceRays: The Corpus Christi IceRays, a member of the North American Hockey League playing out of the Hilliard Center in downtown Corpus Christi, TX. For more information or for all your ticketing needs, contact the IceRays Front Office at (361)-814-PUCK or visit www.GoIceRays.com . You can also follow the team through their social media platforms: Facebook @goicerays, Instagram @iceraysnahl, and Twitter @iceraysnahl
About North American Hockey League: Celebrating its 50th season in 2024-25, the NAHL, the only USA Hockey sanctioned Tier II Junior league boasting 35 teams in 20 states from North American. For more information, visit the NAHL website at https://nahl.com/
About Hilliard Center
Hilliard Center is Corpus Christi’s premier entertainment and event complex, proudly owned by the City of Corpus Christi and managed by Oak View Group. Named in partnership with Hilliard Law, a firm dedicated to service and community, the waterfront venue features a state-of-the-art arena, the historic Selena Auditorium, and a versatile convention center overlooking the scenic Corpus Christi Bay. With adaptable spaces, complimentary Wi-Fi, and premium food and beverage offerings, Hilliard Center is designed to deliver exceptional experiences as South Texas’ home for live entertainment, conventions, and community gatherings.
Visit HilliardCenter.com and follow the Hilliard Center on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok for the latest news and event updates.
About Oak View Group (OVG)
Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in premium live entertainment infrastructure and services, with a platform spanning venue development and end-to-end capabilities across venue management, hospitality, and sponsorship sales. Founded in 2015, the Company serves a collection of seven world-class owned venues and a client roster of the most iconic arenas, stadiums, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions, spanning four continents. Visit OakViewGroup.com, and follow OVG on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.
