The Wichita Thunder [https://thehockeynews.com/echl/latest-news/wichita-re-signs-somerville]have announced the signing of forward Declan Smith for the 2025-26 season. The 27-year-old Smith returns to the Air Capital after finishing his first full season as a pro. A native of Antigonish, Nova Scotia, the 6-foot, 200-pound forward tallied 14 points (7-7-14) in 51 games last year. He came on in the middle of the season, recording eight points (3-5-8) over a six-game span from Feb. 1 to Feb. 15. Smith had a career-high three points (2-1-3) against Allen [https://thehockeynews.com/echl/players/americans-sign-trio-of-skaters]on Feb. 7 in a 7-3 win and was named as the first star of the game. Prior to turning pro, Smith completed a four-year career at St. Francis Xavier University (USports). Smith recorded the game-winner in the fourth overtime against Acadia in the AUS quarterfinal to clinch the series during his senior campaign. He had a career-high 23 points (11-12-23) in 28 games in 2023-24 and had five points (4-1-5) in five playoff games. Smith finished with 45 points (22-23-45) in 98 career-games for the X-Men. In 2019-20, he was named as the team's rookie of the year. Wichita opens its 2025-26 campaign against the Allen Americans on Saturday, Oct. 18.
