Hodgson brings chill and skill to Cyclones broadcast booth

Fans love hockey for it’s fast pace, physicality skill, strategy and energy. Rudy Hodgson’s favorite thing about hockey is different. “I love the chill of a rink with fresh ice,” he states.

Hodgson will be enjoying the chill in the ECHL. The former college hockey player is the new voice of the Cincinnati Cyclones.

Rich history

“The Cyclones have a great track record of developing young broadcasters to get them to the next level,” Hodgson enthuses. “On top of that, the organization is full of incredibly kind individuals that want to succeed on and off the ice. This is my first full-time play-by-play role in professional hockey. I do not take this opportunity for granted. I am very excited for the opportunity to be the next voice of one of the premier organizations in the ECHL.”

The Cyclones’ track record for broadcasters is, indeed, impressive. Everett Fitzhugh is in the NHL with the Seattle Kraken. Andrew Mossbrooks is a multimedia journalist with the AHL’s Rosters Americans, and STAA member Dana Grey recently joined the Rockford IceHogs.

Hodgson learned of the Cincinnati opportunity in an STAA Job Leads+ email. “I was connected through STAA, immediately reached out to a team representative and away we went. I always try to be proactive and put my best foot forward. I created a new reel specifically tailored for this kind of position. It all happened very quickly, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. It was a rush in the best of ways.”

Notable playing career

Hodgson is a first generation high school and college graduate from Los Angeles. He grew up an avid hockey player and was a member of the U.S. Men’s Inline Hockey Team and Team California. During his college career at DePaul, Hodgson also played for the Colombian National Hockey Team that won its first international championship in 2021. His game worn jersey is now on display at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto, Ontario. It remains the first and only Colombian artifact to be collected by the NHL, the HHOF, and IIHF.

His playing experience helps Hodgson in the booth. “[It] made me a better broadcaster because I automatically had a connection to the sport and all of its intricate details. Additionally, being around hockey players my whole life gave me a sense of comfort in the booth. I felt like I knew what was happening and the game wasn’t too quick for me to call.”

Hodgson most recently was the voice of DePaul hockey. He’s broadcast on ESPN+, Big Ten Plus, SHL Network, and more. Hodgson spent 2023 and 2024 as the Apple TV Digital Host for MLS club, Chicago Fire FC. His experience, and several intangibles, helped Hodgson earn the Cyclones opportunity.

“I think just trying to stay ready, being proactive, and being a good person goes a long way,” Hodgson surmises. “I wanted to emphasize my interest, be as genuine as can be, and really show them that I was serious about making the most of the opportunity. It’s a tough industry to pursue and it can be very difficult when the chances don’t come, but I hope it doesn’t discourage one to give up on what they want. So I really think getting reps, preparing, and networking did it for me. I hope I can be that same kind of resource for any other hockey broadcasters, the way a few were for me!”

Immediate dividends

Hodgson seeing the Cyclones opening in the STAA email came just four days after he joined STAA. “Fortunately, I know a few people that have STAA memberships, they always spoke highly of it,” he recalls. “I took a chance and saw it as a way to invest in myself and it helped me get to where I am!

“I recommend STAA to anyone looking to get their foot in the door, or get established for their big break. Even though I have a new position, I’ll still remain in STAA and use the resources available to continue honing my craft. There is still so much for me to learn, and I’m eager to do so.”

Hodgson is also eager to experience the chill fresh ice in the ECHL. “I feel so lucky to return to my roots and call hockey for a professional team. Cincinnati is a great city, I can’t wait to call it home.”

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