‘A Significant Signing For Our Club’ – Hugo Arps Joins Sydney Bears
The Bing Lee Sydney Bears are proud to announce the signing of 16-year-old forward Hugo Arps for the 2026 Australian Ice Hockey League (AIHL) season.
“We’re incredibly excited to secure Hugo and look forward to seeing him make his AIHL debut this season,” Sydney Bears’ Director of Hockey Operations, Nathan Graham, declared. “This is a significant signing for our club and a great opportunity to welcome one of Australia’s most promising offensive talents into our group.”
In 2024, Arps captained the New South Wales U15 team to a gold medal at the De Fris Tournament and cemented his status as one of Australia’s top young prospects – scoring 44 points (27G, 17A) in seven games.
Following that performance, in March 2025, Arps, then 15, played for the U18 Australian team that secured silver at the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Division II B tournament in Bulgaria. Arps was a key contributor with six points (3G, 3A) in five games played.
In the last two years in Finland, Arps continued to perform at an elite level, with 35 points (17G, 18A) in 15 games in the U16 Suomi-sarja, and 20 points (9G, 11A) in 21 games in the U18 Suomi-sarja.
Graham expressed the club’s excitement at securing Arps’ services. “Hugo’s addition further elevates our core and emerging young talent group. Hugo has proven to be a real offensive threat both here and throughout his time in Finland - we’re excited by his potential.”
Arps’ familiarity with the Bears’ organisation and his interactions with them were key factors in his decision.
“I have previously played for Sydney Bears in the junior teams before heading to Finland in 2024,” Arps stated. “Recent conversations with Bears AIHL coaches and management made me feel comfortable and welcomed.”
Hugo sees the club as the perfect fit for his 2026 goals. “My goals while playing for the team are to work hard and develop as a player and as a person,” Arps continued.
“Having older teammates to guide me with their knowledge and experiences will be a great advantage to me. The knowledge base in this group will continue to push my development.”
“He [Arps] will benefit greatly from the opportunity to train and compete alongside experienced, mature players,” Graham concluded, “and we’re committed to supporting his development to ensure he continues to grow as a player throughout this season and beyond.”
While Arps awaits his anticipated AIHL debut, he shared his anticipation for the season. “I am excited to be a part of the Bears’ 2026 AIHL team and am looking forward to experiencing the new rink and all the fans.”
Secure your spot to cheer on Arps and the Sydney Bears at the newly renovated Macquarie Ice Rink with one of our season pass options.