Pair of ECHL Forwards Puffer, Bednard sign with Marksmen

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – With a hot start to the season, the Fayetteville Marksmen are wasting no time in continuing to harness as much talent and depth as they can. That philosophy continues today as the team announces the signing of two NCAA Division 1 alumni with ECHL experience in Craig Puffer and Shane Bednard.

Craig Puffer, a 5’9 170 lb left-handed Forward, finds his way down to Fayetteville after a handful of games with the ECHL’s Indy Fuel to close last hockey season, where he scored a goal.

The 24-year-old finds his way professionally by-way of the prestigious hockey school, the University of Vermont (NCAA D1), where he played in nearly every game, acquiring 54 points (22G+32A) in 142 collegiate games.

Previous to his collegiate playing days, the New Canaan, Connecticut native spent a point-per-game season in the British Columbia Hockey League, with 58 points (29G+29A) in 58 games played.

Puffer will rejoin his fellow classmate and teammate Brian Bowen on the Marksmen offense.


Shane Bednard, a 24-year-old forward from Macomb County, Michigan is an alumni of the Bowling Green State University (NCAA D1), where he played 60 games, amassing 13 points (1G+12A). The 5’10 178lb right-hander most recently spent time in the ECHL, where he suited up in six games with the Norfolk Admirals.

Prior to his time collegiality, Bednard suited up for the Bloomington Thunder of the USHL (Tier I Junior), accumulating 39 points (16G+23A) in 58 games and was awarded the team’s MVP at the end of the season.

Head Coach Jesse Kallechy spoke highly of Bednard’s ability and attitude enroute to joining the Marksmen.

“Shane is a player I talked with quite a bit this offseason, and from the start he showed a high-maturity and hockey knowledge. He has a natural-scoring ability and works really hard,” said Kallechy “He’ll be a great addition to our offense, and we expect his talents to thrive with us.”

Bednard is one of two professional hockey players in his family; his brother Ryan – whom he played with at BGSU – was drafted by the NHL’s Florida Panthers, and played in the same division as Shane with ECHL Greenville. Both are also cousins with Marksmen Broadcaster Shawn Bednard.


In a corresponding move with the signings, the Marksmen have traded forward Kyle Moore to Roanoke for Future Considerations. We thank Kyle for his time with Fayetteville, and wish him the best in his hockey career.

Welcome to Fayetteville, Craig & Shane!

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The Fayetteville Marksmen are owned and operated by Union Pro Hockey Group and play their home games at Crown Coliseum. The Marksmen are a committed community asset, designed to provide premium entertainment to families and individuals in Cumberland County and surrounding areas.