Wilson Embraces the Professional Grind, Now Thriving in the FPHL
BEDFORD, MA — Entering junior hockey as an age-out, Houston Wilson’s goal was “consistent ice time and a league where I could be seen by college coaches.”
Wilson, a forward out of Philadelphia, PA, joined the East Coast Wizards of the EHL. He put together an impressive campaign, tallying 26 points in 30 games, and earning a commitment to Stevenson University.
“I loved my time there, and playing for the Wizards gave me the chance to grow my game, get good minutes, and continue my development. I had to adjust to a new team, new coach, and a new league. It ended up being a great experience and really helped me grow as a player.
I met a lot of great people who helped me develop my game and taught me the importance of having a routine in my preparation and recovery. I was able to play in all situations, help the team make the playoffs, and ultimately commit to one of my top choices.”
Wilson played four seasons at Stevenson, accruing 39 points over 91 games. Playing against stronger and older players, he relied on good recovery, preparation, and work ethic habits he had learned throughout his career. By his senior season, he decided he wanted to pursue professional hockey.
Believing he still had a lot of room to grow as a player, Wilson began his professional journey in the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) with the Birmingham Bulls and Vermillion County Bobcats in the 2021-2022 season. Between the two teams, he combined for sixteen points in 53 games.
“My first year as a pro was a great learning experience,” he recalls. “I played for two teams, moved from Alabama to Illinois, and was able to get a lot of ice time with my new team. While it was a tough year for the team overall, I definitely improved as a player and learned a lot from the veterans and coaches. That year really motivated me to keep improving my game.”
During his next three seasons, Wilson embraced the “professional grind,” which featured stops across different teams in different leagues. He boasted a dominant year for the Delaware Thunder of the Federal Prospects Hockey League, which earned him a loan to the East Coast Hockey League’s (ECHL) Reading Royals. He spent the following two seasons predominantly with the SPHL’s Pensacola Ice Flyers, where his production continued to improve.
“Dealing with the professional grind in the minor leagues is all about being adaptable and consistent,” Wilson explains. “Staying positive and learning to make the best of your circumstances, whether on or off the ice, goes a long way. Some situations may not feel like the perfect fit, but it’s important to show up every day looking to improve. The most consistent players are the ones who can bring the same energy, mindset, and work ethic regardless of the situation. Whenever I go to a new team and city, I try to fully embrace where I am and become part of the community. You definitely meet a lot of great people along the way.”
Dealing with an injury last season, his resilience was put to the test. Leaning on “patience and faith,” he gained a greater appreciation for the game which only helped him grow. Having to reset and earn his opportunity once more taught him that “every situation is an opportunity if you approach it the right way.”
Emerging from those trials, Wilson has brought his talents to the PeeDee Ice Cats in the FPHL. His “student of the game” mentality has reinforced an ever-growing hockey IQ, and his hard-working summers keep him prepared for each next step. Through almost thirty games, he is one of their top scorers.
Despite the ups and downs, Wilson is grateful for each and every experience. Focusing on progress, his success is no accident, but rather the culmination of years of steady growth. And with this attitude, he sets his sights on another goal.
“To get where you want to go, you have to be willing to be tested and fail at times. I wouldn’t trade away any of the experiences I’ve had. The only thing I’m missing from my career is a championship.”
To view a list of EHL professional alumni, click here.