The ECHL has announced that Kyle Mayhew of the Fort Wayne Komets is the ECHL Defenseman of the Year for 2024-25 as determined in a vote of ECHL coaches, broadcasters, media relations directors and media members.

The award is presented annually to the defensive player who demonstrates throughout the season the greatest all-around ability in the position.

Derek Daschke of Utah finished second, followed by Savannah’s Dennis Cesana, Connor Welsh of Worcester and Idaho’s Matt Register.

Named to the All-ECHL First Team last week, Mayhew, an Anaheim Hills native, was tied for seventh among ECHL defensemen with 11 goals, third with 41 assists and fourth with 52 points in 60 games this season. He led all blueliners – and was tied for fourth overall in the league – with 27 power-play points, while ranking second with 22 power-play assists and third with five power-play goals.

Mayhew was loaned to Bakersfield of the American Hockey League on March 18, and he has posted seven points (goal, six assists) in 13 games with the Condors.

Back in California, Mayhew skated for the Anaheim Jr. Ducks, San Diego Jr. Gulls and Villa Park High School.

Photo/Josh Gales/Fort Wayne Komets

— ECHL Staff

(April 18, 2025)