OAK FOREST, IL - When you think of goaltenders who redefine the position, names like Dominik Hasek, Patrick Roy, and Martin Brodeur come to mind. These legends weren’t just stopgaps; they were game-changers, tone-setters, and the backbone of their teams. Well, Chicago Crush fans, it’s time to add a new name to that pantheon of puck-stopping greatness: Johnny Augusta.
The Medinah native has been nothing short of sensational this season, and his February performance was a masterclass in goaltending dominance. Stopping 83 of 86 shots over four games, including two shutouts, posted a jaw-dropping .965 save percentage for the month. That’s not just good—that’s elite. And it’s no surprise that the USPHL has recognized him as the Midwest Division Player of the Month for February. But for those who’ve been watching Augusta all season, this honor is just the latest chapter in what’s becoming a legendary career.
Johnny Augusta's Numbers Don’t Lie
Let’s break it down, because stats like these deserve to be shouted from the rooftops. Over 20 regular-season games this year, Augusta has a 14-5-1-0 record, a 1.74 goals-against average (GAA), and a .940 save percentage. He’s turned away 536 of 570 shots, including six shutouts. SIX. That’s not just consistency; that’s dominance. And in February, he was virtually unbeatable, allowing just three goals in four games. Three. Total.
To put it in perspective, Augusta’s February performance was like watching a young Henrik Lundqvist in his prime—calm, composed, and always in the right place at the right time. Like Lundqvist, Augusta has that rare ability to make the impossible save look routine, and the routine save look effortless. Whether it’s a breakaway, a one-timer from the slot, or a scramble in front of the net, Augusta has an uncanny knack for keeping the puck out of the net.
The Captain’s C
But the accolades don’t stop there. In a move that surprised exactly no one, Augusta has been officially named the Captain of the Chicago Crush Elite squad as they head to Wayne, NJ, to compete in the USPHL Nationals Tournament. This isn’t just a nod to his on-ice performance; it’s a testament to his leadership, his work ethic, and his ability to elevate everyone around him.
Crush Elite Head Coach Phil Bushbacher put it perfectly: “Johnny isn’t just a special player—he’s the heart and soul of this team. He’s the guy who sets the standard every day in practice, who leads by example, and who steps up when the pressure is highest. Naming him captain was a no-brainer. He’s the kind of player you build a team around.”
A Legacy in the Making
Augusta’s journey to this point has been nothing short of remarkable. Over the past two seasons, he’s compiled a 23-8-0-1 record with a 1.97 GAA and a .933 save percentage. In the playoffs, he’s been even better, posting a 4-1 record with a 2.00 GAA and a .932 save percentage. His performance in the Divisional Playoffs last year, where he allowed just one goal in two games with a .982 save percentage, was the stuff of legend.
And let’s not forget his game-by-game highlights this season. From his 33-save shutout against Fort Wayne to his 40-save masterpiece against Chicago, Augusta has been a brick wall. His ability to bounce back from rare off-nights (yes, they do happen, even to the best) is a testament to his mental toughness. After giving up eight goals in a tough loss to Chicago on January 3, he responded with back-to-back shutouts, including a 31-save gem against Decatur. That’s the mark of a true competitor.
The Road to Nationals
As the Crush head to Wayne, NJ, for the USPHL Nationals Tournament, all eyes will be on Augusta. With the C on his chest and the weight of expectations on his shoulders, he’s ready to lead his team to glory. And if his track record is any indication, he’s more than up to the task.
So here’s to Johnny Augusta: the Wall of Medinah, the Midwest Division Player of the Month, and now the Captain of the Chicago Crush Elite. Whether he’s making clutch saves in a game or being a leader in the locker, one thing is clear—Johnny Augusta is a special talent, and we’re lucky to witness him in action. From the entire Chicago Crush Organization, congratulations Captain Johnny!
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