SDEDL Year Three Kicks Off with Record-Breaking Draft

by Callan McClurg

SDEDL Year Three Kicks Off with Record-Breaking Draft

The pursuit of the prestigious McClurg Champions Cup has officially resumed. On a high-energy Saturday at the Escondido Sports Center, the San Diego Elite Draft League (SDEDL) dropped the puck on its third season with the annual Draft Evaluation skate. The atmosphere was electric, signaling the return of the region’s premier draft-format hockey competition.

Record-Breaking Growth and Elite Evaluation

For the third consecutive year, the SDEDL has proven itself as the fastest-growing hockey community in Southern California. A record 72 skaters and 11 goaltenders took to the floor, representing a steady climb in participation since the league's inception.

The evaluation was a masterclass in local talent, overseen by the 2026 Captains’ Council: Anthony Dykes, Ray Kinsey, Nik Olsson, and Kyle Agnello. Joining them were the league’s foundational front office members—Callan McClurg, Josh Fountaine, and Phil Bryan—who meticulously charted speed, puck handling, and grit. The talent pool was a sophisticated blend of veteran "league staples" and a surge of high-end youth, including standout newcomers Ben Hoffman, Eli Hoffman, and Tolan Kim.



The War Room: Branding and Selections

Following the evaluation, the leadership retreated to the "War Room" at Craft Coast Brewery and Taco Stand in San Marcos. Amidst the strategy and high stakes of a 13-round snake draft, the league’s new identity for 2026 was unveiled. The four franchises competing for glory this year are:

  • Gaslamp Guardians (Captain: Kyle Agnello)

  • Old Town Outlaws (Captain: Anthony Dykes – Defending 2025 Champion)

  • La Jolla Riptides (Captain: Nik Olsson)

  • Torrey Pines Talons (Captain: Ray Kinsey – 2024 Points Leader)

Draft Highlights: Top Picks and Historic Selections

The draft began with a splash as Bailey Ridout was taken 1st Overall by Agnello’s Gaslamp Guardians. The opening round was rounded out by SDEDL royalty: Colton Grover (the league's first-ever goal scorer) went to Torrey Pines, Noe Santos (the 2025 Playoff MVP) was locked in by Old Town, and Reed Kinsey went to La Jolla.

History was made in the 7th Round when the Old Town Outlaws selected Tia Stoddard. The Clarkson University Women’s Ice Hockey star becomes only the second female player in league history, following in the footsteps of Keely Moy.

"These rosters have stepped up significantly from year one," noted defending champion Anthony Dykes. The sentiment was echoed by league veteran Evan Mederios, who remarked, "The depth is incredible. Honestly, I’m scared to play against some of these rosters."

The Battle in the Crease

With 11 goaltenders vying for spots, the competition between the pipes was fierce. Bryce Runyan was the first netminder off the board, taken by Torrey Pines in Round 7. Runyan brings a veteran presence to the Talons, looking to build on his .828 career save percentage.

Meanwhile, the Outlaws prioritized chemistry, reuniting Captain Dykes with Ryan Meltzer. Meltzer was the hero of the 2025 Finals, posting a gutsy performance to secure the Cup for the former Escondido Rhinos. Other notable selections included Wyatt Beaupre (Gaslamp) and Matt Mahlow (Torrey Pines), while newcomers Mike Erving (Gaslamp) and Quinlen Johnston (La Jolla) were scooped up as well.



Blockbuster Post-Draft Trade

Before the ink was even dry on the rosters, the first major shakeup of the season occurred between La Jolla and Torrey Pines.

  • Torrey Pines Talons receive: Jason Effertz (3rd Round) and Cody Betsch (4th Round).

  • La Jolla Riptides receive: Jake Betsch (2nd Round) and Jimmy Becker (3rd Round).

This high-stakes swap sees the Betsch brothers separated, setting the stage for an intense sibling rivalry when the two clubs meet on the floor.



Opening Night: May 9th

The road to the McClurg Champions Cup officially begins on May 9th at the Escondido Sports Center. Admission is free for all fans wishing to catch the action in person. For those across the globe, the games will be broadcast live with full commentary.

Week 1 Matchups:

  • 7:30 PM PT: Old Town Outlaws vs. La Jolla Riptide

  • 8:30 PM PT: Torrey Pines Talons vs. Gaslamp Guardians

Where to Watch: twitch.tv/elitedraftleaguesd

Broadcasting Crew: Josh Fountaine, Gabe John, Phil Bryan, and Callan McClurg.

The rosters are set. The jerseys are ready. San Diego, let’s play hockey.