RING THE BELL—THE LOCAL KID GETS THE CALL!

Norton Shores Native Ethan Ring Joins the Phantoms as a Fall/Winter Substitute

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — From the hockey rinks of Muskegon County to the college game and now into the West Michigan Phantoms’ extended lineup, a local player is getting his opportunity.

The Phantoms have officially signed forward Ethan Ring as a substitute for the Fall/Winter 2026–27 season.

Ring is a true West Michigan product. Born in Norton Shores, the 6-foot, 205-pound left-handed forward developed his game with the Mona Shores Sailors, competing only a short distance from where the Phantoms’ hockey network has grown for more than two decades.

During three regular seasons at Mona Shores, Ring appeared in 75 games and produced 21 goals, 32 assists and 53 points, along with only 14 penalty minutes. Those totals showed a young forward capable of both finishing opportunities and helping create them for his teammates.

After completing his time with the Sailors, Ring advanced into the college game. He joined Oakland University’s ACHA Division III program for the 2025–26 season, wearing No. 18 for a Golden Grizzlies team that reached the national championship game.

Ring appeared in 30 games between the regular season and playoffs, recording four goals, two assists and six points with 17 penalty minutes. His regular-season totals were four goals and one assist in 25 games before he added another assist during five postseason appearances.

Now Ring returns to the West Michigan side of the state and enters the Phantoms organization as a substitute ready to answer when the lineup needs reinforcements.

The role requires flexibility, patience and preparation. A substitute may not know weeks in advance when the call will arrive, but when a roster opening appears, the expectation remains the same: bring the equipment, step into the lineup and be ready to contribute.

For Ring, that opportunity carries a special local connection. He grew up playing hockey in Norton Shores, represented Mona Shores and now joins an organization whose history stretches throughout Grand Rapids, Muskegon and the surrounding West Michigan hockey community.

He also brings youth and recent college experience to a veteran Phantoms group. At 6 feet and 205 pounds, Ring possesses the size to compete in traffic, protect the puck and provide another physical option at forward.

This signing is not about importing another player from outside the area. It is about giving a West Michigan player an opportunity within a West Michigan organization.

From Norton Shores to Mona Shores, from Oakland University to the Phantoms, Ethan Ring’s hockey path has brought him back home—and when the Phantoms need help, the local kid will be waiting for the call.

The bell has been rung, the substitute list has been strengthened and Ethan Ring is officially part of the West Michigan Phantoms!

WELCOME TO THE PHANTOMS, ETHAN RING!

FEAR THE EYES!