On Wednesday November 18th, the Cincinnati Cyclones announced the signing of Japanese right-winger Yushiroh Hirano. The two sides agreed to terms on a standard player contract for the upcoming season.
Hirano, 25-years-old, returns to North America for his third year of pro hockey. Throughout his career thus far, Hirano has amassed 92 points, scoring 32 goals along with 60 assists. As well, he’s tallied 74 penalty minutes, achieving this in 119 games.
Hirano opened 2018-19 on a two-year contract with the Wheeling Nailers. In his first season with the organization, Hirano recorded 19 goals along with 38 assists which made for 57 points. He did so in 67 games. Later that season, Hirano went on to play for Japan’s world cup team, putting up three points over five games played.
In Hirano’s second season with the Nailers, the forward tallied 35 points, scoring 13 goals along with 22 assists. He amassed this total in 52 games. He closed out 2019-20 in the Olympic Qualifiers with the Japanese National Team. Hirano would play three games there, recording four points on two goals and two assists.
In a statement from the right-handed shooter, he said on Wednesday upon signing his contract, “I feel very proud and thankful for the opportunity with the Cyclones during the hard time of the world with COVID-19. I am looking forward to playing in front of the great Cyclones fans.”
As for the thoughts of Matt Thomas, head coach of the Cincinnati Cyclones, he said of the team’s latest signing, “We have intimate knowledge of Yushiroh as a player and competitor from the last two years in Central Division play. He has an elite level shot and will immediately improve our power play. We look forward to adding a player of his caliber to our team.”