Aaron Ness announces retirement from professional hockey: ‘I leave with nothing but gratitude and pride. Hershey will always feel like home.
Aaron Ness, the captain of the Hershey Bears, has officially announced his retirement from professional hockey. The announcement, made on Tuesday, concludes a distinguished 16-year career characterized by leadership, and longevity.
Ness departs the game after appearing in more than 800 AHL games and 72 NHL appearances. He leaves behind a legacy as one of the most accomplished defensemen in the history of the Hershey franchise.
A Legacy of Leadership in Hershey
During his tenure with the Bears, Ness spent parts of eight seasons across two separate stints. He recorded 188 points, consisting of 33 goals and 155 assists, over 466 regular-season games.
These 466 games rank him 19th in overall franchise history and seventh among all defensemen. He also holds the club record for the most playoff games played by a defenseman with 76 appearances.
Ness was a cornerstone of the Bears’ recent success, playing a key role in securing back-to-back Calder Cup championships in 2023 and 2024. In his first season as captain, he helped lead the team to an Atlantic Division title.
Bryan Helmer, Hershey vice president of hockey operations, praised Ness for his professionalism and work ethic. Helmer stated that Ness set the standard of what it means to be a “Bear” while representing the “Chocolate and White” with class.
Professional Journey and International Honors
Ness’s professional path began when he was selected in the second round of the 2008 NHL Draft by the New York Islanders. He went on to play in the NHL for the Islanders, the Washington Capitals, and the Phoenix Coyotes.
Beyond the professional leagues, Ness represented Team USA on the global stage during the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing.
His AHL journey extended beyond Hershey to include stints with the Providence Bruins, Tucson Roadrunners, and Bridgeport Sound Tigers. Across these teams, he amassed 339 career points.
An Emotional Farewell
The final chapter of Ness’s career took place on May 8, when the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins eliminated Hershey from the 2026 Calder Cup Playoffs. Following a 4-1 loss in Game 4 of the Atlantic Division Semifinals, Ness received a standing ovation from the Giant Center crowd.
In a letter to fans, Ness expressed deep gratitude for the community, noting that his three children—Carter, Henrik, and Thomas—grew up around the team. He described Hershey as a place that will always feel like home.
Former teammates, including Tom Wilson, Matt Strome, and Clay Stevenson, took to social media to salute Ness, describing him as a “legend” and “one of the best to do it.”
Looking Ahead
As Ness transitions into retirement, the Hershey Bears may need to identify a new leader to fill the captaincy and maintain the standard of professionalism Ness established.
Given his deep ties to the organization, Ness could remain a figure of inspiration for the franchise, though his immediate focus is likely to shift toward his family.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Calder Cup championships did Aaron Ness win with Hershey?
Aaron Ness won two Calder Cup championships with the Hershey Bears in 2023 and 2024.
Which NHL teams did Aaron Ness play for during his career?
Ness appeared in 72 NHL games playing for the New York Islanders, Washington Capitals, and Phoenix Coyotes.
What franchise record does Aaron Ness hold in Hershey?
Ness is the highest-scoring American-born defenseman in franchise history and holds the record for playoff games played by a defenseman with 76.
How do you think the loss of a veteran captain like Aaron Ness will impact the Hershey Bears’ pursuit of future championships?