Relationships and Patience Pay Off for Rampage Stand-out Cody Paul

One year ago, Rampage forward Cody Paul was completing an unprecedented season as a 2011 birth-year playing 13O AAA hockey in the Tier-1 Elite League. Looking forward to improving on his rookie Tier-1 campaign, he suffered a crushing blow over the summer learning of a new USA Hockey rule that disqualified him from returning to his 13O team. Relegated back to 12U hockey without competitive game opportunities in Colorado, Cody turned his focus to skill development practicing with Rampage Tier-1 teams and off-ice training. Remaining patient and positive, the opportunity of a lifetime came knocking. From February 7-18, Cody Paul competed in the most prestigious Pewee tournament in world, the Quebec International Hockey Tournament. Skating with the Ohio Blue Jackets 12U AAA team, he played games against the Boston Advantage, LA Jr. Kings, Middlesex Islanders, Boston Jr. Terriers, Japan Selects, and Suisse Romande Beliers.

 John Burkart, an NHL scout with the Tampa Bay Lightning and close friend of the Colorado Rampage, had a history of drafting several Rampage players for years working in the USHL. Burkart played a key role helping Cody and the Rampage navigate through the season challenges and find creative solutions for his competitive development. His journey to Quebec was made possible through the strong relationships the Rampage have cultivated with the Ohio Blue Jackets AAA program and their long-time President Ed Gingher. Despite the setback in Colorado, Cody's determination and the Rampage's commitment to their athletes led to a creative solution that allowed him to pursue his dreams on an international stage. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of fostering positive connections within the sports community and the unwavering support that Rampage provides to its athletes. Cody's success in Quebec serves as a testament to the power of teamwork, perseverance and patience.

 “The same way the Rampage has provided opportunities for players from under-served markets outside of Colorado for over 20 years, to help facilitate a Rampage player being underserved in Colorado an opportunity to pursue his dreams was very rewarding. -Pat Bingham, Rampage President"