Mike Van Unen signs for the Rapid City Rush in the ECHL

Image Credit: Allen Americans

Kamloops product Mike Van Unen has signed with the Rapid City Rush for the 2025–26 ECHL season. The 26-year-old defenceman makes the move after spending last season with the Allen Americans, where he appeared in 42 games and recorded two assists.

Van Unen, a 6’1” left-shot defenceman, began his junior career with the Merritt Centennials of the BCHL, suiting up in 145 regular-season games from 2016 to 2019. He then committed to Northern Michigan University, where he played five seasons in the NCAA. Over 150 games with the Wildcats, Van Unen totalled 12 goals and 28 assists while establishing himself as a key piece of their blue line.

Following his college career, Van Unen signed with the Adirondack Thunder to close out the 2023–24 season before joining Allen last year. His signing in Rapid City marks his third stop in the ECHL.

Van Unen now joins a Rush team preparing for the upcoming season, bringing experience from both the BCHL and NCAA ranks into Rapid City’s defensive corps.