The Record Breaker goes WILD

Widnes Wild are delighted to announce the signing of GB prospect forward Alex Rushby for the 2026/27 season.

The talented young forward joins the Wild from Nottingham Lions after making a huge impact during the first 2 seasons of his senior career, arriving in Widnes as one of the most exciting emerging talents in the UK.

At just 17 years old, Rushby has already established himself as a proven point producer at senior level, recording more than 130 points in just 62 NIHL1 appearances across his first two seasons of senior hockey.

Rushby announced himself on the senior stage in record-breaking fashion, making history during his first season of senior hockey by recording 75 points in a single NIHL1 season to become the record holder for the most points by an under-18 player in league history. The achievement highlighted his ability to make an immediate impact against established senior competition and marked him out as one of the UK’s brightest talents.

Alongside his club success, Rushby has also continued to impress on the international stage, representing Great Britain at U16, U18 and U20 level. Most recently, he featured for GB U18 in Romania, recording 6 points (2 goals + 4 assists) in 5 games, while also enjoying success at u19 National level after helping his U19 side secure both league and playoff championship honours.

His performances have also earned recognition at the highest level of British hockey, with Alex signing with Elite League side Nottingham Panthers during the 2025/26 season. He made his Elite League debut just one day after his 17th birthday, becoming another milestone in what has already been a remarkable start to his career.

Alex also spent the 2025/26 campaign on a two-way agreement with NIHL side Peterborough Phantoms, gaining further senior experience and continuing his development against high-level competition.

Rushby arrives in Widnes as an example of the type of player the Wild are committed to supporting, talented, ambitious and focused on continued progression. As a club, we pride ourselves on creating an environment where players can develop within a strong structure while also being encouraged to access elite opportunities and pathways that help maximise their potential.

With Alex’s experience already including NIHL, Elite League and International hockey, the Wild are excited to provide the platform, support and environment for him to continue developing as a player while competing at the highest level within the organisation.

Speaking following his move to Widnes, Rushby said:

“I’m really excited to be joining Widnes Wild this year. After a strong start to my senior career with Nottingham Lions, I feel ready for this next step and a new challenge.

I’m excited to continue my development under a strong pathway at Widnes and would like to thank Nottingham Lions for all their support across the past six years.

I can’t wait for the season ahead and to perform for the Widnes fans in the Jungle in September.”

Head Coach Tom Jackson is excited to add another young, high-potential player to the Wild roster:

“Bringing Alex into the team is something I’m genuinely excited about.

He’s shown in his first two seasons at NIHL1 that he can put up serious numbers, nearly 150 points already with many more to come this year.

I want to see him thrive alongside our proven group, continue his personal success, and help us push towards the goals we’ve set as an organisation for the coming season.

I’m looking forward to working closely with him, integrating him into our systems, and supporting him on his journey and continued development.”

The arrival of Rushby marks another exciting addition to the Wild squad as the club continues to build for the future, combining established experience with some of the brightest young talent in the league.

With the club’s focus on creating a sustainable pathway for players to progress, Alex’s signing represents another step in Widnes’ commitment to developing talent and providing the right environment for players to reach their maximum potential.

Supporters and businesses now have the opportunity to back one of the most exciting young players arriving in Widnes.

Player sponsorship packages for Alex are now available, offering fans and businesses the chance to support the next stage of his development while partnering with one of the league’s fastest-rising talents. Sponsors will receive exposure across the club’s social media channels, website and matchnight communications throughout the season.

Fans can also secure a piece of the action through the club’s Own & Loan scheme. Both Rushby’s home and away jerseys are available for £75 each, giving supporters the chance to follow his first season in Wild colours before taking ownership of a game-worn jersey at the end of the campaign.

To enquire about player sponsorship or reserve an Own & Loan jersey, please contact info@widneswild.co.uk.

Everyone at Widnes Wild would like to welcome Alex to the club, and we look forward to seeing #27 make his mark in front of the Wild faithful at the Jungle this September.

Keep an eye on the club’s social media channels, with more announcements coming soon.

#LETSGOWILD #REWILDING