Unfinished Business: Charlotte Rush’s Tristin McAuliffe 

USPHL • #NCDCDieHards • #NCDCUnfinishedBusiness • Unfinished Business: Charlotte Rush’s Tristin McAuliffe 

Tristin McAuliffe

The National Collegiate Development Conference’s Unfinished Business series highlights returning veterans who are back to lead, continue their development and pursue goals still within reach. Whether it’s a Dineen Cup championship, a college commitment or another opportunity to prove themselves, these players return to the NCDC with unfinished business.

One of those players is Charlotte Rush defenseman Tristin McAuliffe, who returns for his third season with the organization after steadily progressing through the Rush development system. After beginning his junior career in the USPHL Elite, McAuliffe earned a full-time role in the USPHL Premier before continuing his journey into the NCDC for the 2026-27 season.

During the 2025-26 USPHL Premier season, McAuliffe recorded 15 goals and 21 assists for 36 points in 34 games, adding three points in four playoff contests while establishing himself as one of the league’s top young defensemen.

Now entering his first full NCDC season, McAuliffe is expected to be a leader on and off the ice while playing in every situation for the Rush. Head Coach Trevor Kleckner believes his commitment to the organization and continued growth make him an invaluable piece of the team’s future.

“Tristin is the type of defenseman every coach wants on their team,” said Kleckner. “He competes relentlessly, plays the game with conviction, and sets the standard with his character and work ethic every single day. His consistency and commitment make him one of the top returning defensemen in our league, and we’re excited to have him leading our blue line again next season.”

McAuliffe’s path through the Charlotte Rush organization reflects the opportunities available within the USPHL development model. Rather than leaving for another program, he continued to earn each opportunity through his play, developing from the Elite level to the Premier before reaching the NCDC.

With three years in the organization and another step forward in his development, McAuliffe enters the 2026-27 season ready to help lead the Rush into a new chapter.