Garin Ludwig was the Clippers top scoring defenceman in the 2024-25 campaign and how he's back to help the team make a run to the Fred Page Cup. (Damon James/Island Images Photography)

By Dan Marshall

Making his Return

Garin Ludwig returns to Clippers after USHL stint

Nov 21, 2025 | 10:53 AM

NANAIMO — The Clippers were dealt a blow in the offseason when the co-winner of their top defenceman award and 2025 team unsung hero left the club.

Garin Ludwig opted to move to the USHL but after 12 games with Sioux City he decided to come back to the Harbour City.

He made his season debut with the Clippers in Langley on Friday, Nov. 14.

“It was awesome,” Ludwig said. “I didn’t do much the previous week but I got out there and got the legs underneath me. It was a good weekend to spend time with a new group and some guys I’m not familiar with.”

Ludwig explained his time in the USHL was valuable, even though it was short.

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“It was a good to be in that league to develop my defensive game a little bit. I think that’s going to play a huge factor in my success back here in Nanaimo. I think that’s one thing that wasn’t a focal point of my game last year that I can hopefully bring this year.”

The 19-year-old blueliner has always felt comfortable in Nanaimo and is thrilled to be reunited with former teammates.

“I was close with all of the guys from last year. It was the best locker room I’ve ever been a part of and it seems like this year is the same or maybe even better.”

The 2024-25 Clippers turned into strong defensive team by the end of the season and Ludwig has high expectations for this year’s roster.

“This D corps has so much mobility. Having that in our depth is so huge, anyone can make a make play and everyone has a well rounded game.”

Nanaimo coach Colin Birkas has always coveted Ludwig, noting he’s a quality player and a great person away from the rink as well.

“Adding Garin Ludwig that guy can make plays and you’ve seen it already. He can get us out of trouble quick and that forces the team you’re playing to re-evaluate what they’re doing. That should open up space for other players.”

Ludwig and the Clippers take a 10-7-2 record into their next games Friday, Nov. 21 in Coquitlam and Saturday, Nov. 22 visiting Surrey.

Nanaimo will wrap up the month with a road game in Alberni Valley on Nov. 28 and a home contest versus the Langley Rivermen on Nov. 29.

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