OAK FOREST, IL - When the Chicago Crush needed a steady hand, a calming presence, and a playmaking maestro to guide them through the grind of December, Cyler Brogle answered the call. The Glen Ellyn native and third-year Crush veteran has been named the USPHL Midwest Division Player of the Month, and if you’ve been watching this kid lace ‘em up, you know this honor is well-deserved. Brogle isn’t just a player—he’s a heartbeat for this team, a guy who does the little things that don’t always show up on the scoresheet but absolutely tilt the ice in his team’s favor.
Let’s break it down, because Brogle’s December was a masterclass in two-way hockey. In six games, he posted a 1-4-5 line, dishing out assists like he was running a power-play clinic. But don’t let the modest goal total fool you—this kid is a setup artist, a quarterback on skates, and his vision with the puck is borderline clairvoyant. Whether it’s a saucer pass through traffic or a quick dish to spring a teammate on a breakaway, Brogle’s hockey IQ is off the charts.
And let’s talk about the intangibles. Brogle’s game isn’t just about points—it’s about presence. At 6’0” and 185 pounds, he’s not afraid to throw his weight around, as evidenced by his 25 penalty minutes this season. He’s a guy who can win battles along the boards, kill penalties, and still have the gas to jumpstart the transition game. He’s the kind of player coaches dream about—a no-nonsense defenseman who can do it all.
Brogle’s consistency has been a hallmark of his three-year tenure with the Crush. Over 84 regular-season games, he’s racked up 43 points (5 goals, 38 assists), proving he’s not just a flash in the pan but a bona fide playmaker. This season alone, he’s already notched 16 points in 19 games, including 15 assists. That’s not just good—that’s top-shelf production for a guy who’s often tasked with shutting down the opposition’s top lines.
But here’s the kicker: Brogle’s game is still evolving. At just 19 years old, he’s already committed to playing ACHA hockey with Adrian College starting in 2025-26. That’s a testament to his work ethic, his hockey sense, and his relentless drive to improve. Adrian is getting a gem—a player who can control the tempo of a game, make his teammates better, and step up when the lights are brightest.
Crush head coach Steve Maltais had this to say about his star defenseman: “Cyler is the kind of player who makes everyone around him better. He’s got that rare combination of skill, grit, and hockey IQ that you just can’t teach. He’s a leader on and off the ice, and this recognition is well-earned.”
For Brogle, this Player of the Month nod isn’t just a personal accolade—it’s a reflection of his commitment to the Crush and the game he loves. He’s a hometown hero, a Glen Ellyn kid living out his dream, and he’s doing it with a level of humility and determination that’s impossible not to respect.
So, what’s next for Cyler Brogle? More highlights, more wins, and more moments that remind us why we love this game. The Crush are in the thick of the playoff hunt, and if Brogle keeps playing at this level, they’re going to be a nightmare matchup for anyone in the Midwest Division.
From the entire Chicago Crush organization, congratulations, Cyler. You’ve earned this. Now, let’s drop the puck and keep the momentum rolling!
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