The Fort Wayne Komets [https://thehockeynews.com/echl/game-day/komets-end-heartlanders-fairy-tale-season-move-on-to-division-finals]signed a couple of players on Monday. The club announced that forward Jack Gorniak has re-signed for his third season in the orange and black. Rookie forward Josh Groll will also return. The 25-year-old Gorniak, a left-shot left wing/center, scored a career-high 18 goals and 16 assists for 34 points in 70 games last season with the Komets. The West Salem, Wisconsin, native also won his second Mr. Hustle Award, showcasing his up-tempo style of play. Nicknamed “Flash”, his speed will continue to be an asset for the Komets. “Jack has become such a dynamic player and one of the fastest skaters in the ECHL,” head coach Jesse Kallechy stated. “He continues to improve, so we are excited to see what he can bring to the Komets next season.” The 5-foot-11, 176-pound forward was drafted in the fourth round (123rd overall) by the Montreal Canadiens [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/montreal-canadiens]in the 2018 NHL Draft. He has appeared in 134 games with Fort Wayne, registering 59 points (27-32-59). Gorniak’s brother, Tyler Gorniak, currently plays in the NA3HL with the La Crosse Freeze. The 23-year-old Groll made his pro debut with the Komets on Apr. 4, 2025, after four seasons of NCAA hockey [https://thehockeynews.com/ncaa/]at Minnesota State-Mankato. The San Diego, California, native scored three goals and added an assist in six regular season games. The 5-foot-11, 174-pound forward also added one goal and three assists in 13 playoff games. “Josh Groll came in late last season and fit right in,” Kallechy said. “He’s a tremendous worker on and off the ice, and we are happy to have him back.” (Photo Courtesy of the Fort Wayne Komets)
