T1ER Alumnus, Colin Ralph, Signs NHL Contract with the St. Louis Blues

The St. Louis Blues announced today that former Carshield defenseman Colin Ralph has signed a three-year entry-level NHL contract beginning in the 2026-27 season. The former Carshield skater will head to the Springfield Thunderbirds of the American Hockey League (AHL) for the remainder of the 2025-26 season.

Ralph just wrapped up his sophomore season playing NCAA Division I hockey. He spent the past season playing for the Michigan State University Spartans. The 20-year-old was drafted by the Blues during the 2024 NHL Entry Draft in the second round, 48th overall.

This past season, the former Carshield skater registered 11 points in his 37 games played with Michigan State. He found twine once, while notching 10 assists for the Spartans. Ralph played a vital role in helping Michigan State this season. He helped to lead his team to a Big Ten regular season championship and an appearance in the quarterfinals of the NCAA Tournament.

Before joining the Spartans in East Lansing, Michigan, Ralph spent his freshman season playing for St. Cloud State University. The ‘05 blueliner recorded eight points in his 35 games played. The Minnesota native scored a goal while making seven assists for the Huskies. His work from the blue line earned him distinction. Ralph was named to the NCHC All-Rookie Team. In addition to playing collegiately, Ralph got the opportunity to play internationally and represent Team USA at the 2025 World Junior Championship. He registered an assist in the seven games played at the tournament and helped to lift Team USA to earn a gold medal.

Prior to skating collegiately and internationally, Ralph played two seasons in the T1ER, most recently with the CarShield AAA 16U team during the 2021-22 season. In 28 regular season games, the future St. Louis Blue tallied 19 points (two goals, 17 assists). During postseason play, he notched two additional assists throughout four Dixon Cup Playoffs.