By: Ryan Finch | Follow me on Twitter/X @RyanFinch0815
When the Maine Mariners announced the signing of forward Jack Works, they weren’t just adding another player to the roster—they were adding someone who already knew exactly what kind of atmosphere awaited him in Portland. Works, who spent last season with the Wheeling Nailers, experienced Cross Insurance Arena from the visiting bench during the Kelly Cup Playoffs. Now, instead of trying to silence the Mariners faithful, he’ll have one of the ECHL’s loudest fan bases cheering him on.
“It’s a hard building to play in as an opponent and has a great atmosphere,” Works said. “The fans are super involved and I’m definitely happy to have them behind me instead of against me now.” That atmosphere was only one of the reasons Works felt Maine was the right fit for the next step in his professional career.
After speaking with head coach and general manager Rick Kowalsky, Works quickly realized the direction the organization was heading aligned with what he was looking for. “I decided to sign with Maine after speaking with Rick Kowalsky,” Works explained. “I like the style of play, and I think I could fit in well. I liked the sound of what they are building towards. I also enjoyed the city when I was playing as an opponent.”
It’s easy to see why the opportunity appealed to him. The Mariners are coming off the most successful season in franchise history after recording a franchise-best 93 points and advancing to the North Division Finals. Kowalsky has quickly established a culture centered around accountability, hard work, and team-first hockey—qualities that seem to fit Works’ own approach to the game. That mindset has followed him throughout his hockey career.
Before turning professional, Works captured an NCAA National Championship with the University of Denver in 2022 before transferring to Michigan Tech, where he eventually earned the honor of serving as team captain. Leadership, responsibility, and doing whatever is necessary to help the team win have become trademarks of his game, and those are qualities he hopes to bring to Portland.
“I think I can bring intensity and hard-nosed play,” Works said. “I believe I’m a player who can play in many different situations and will do whatever it takes to win, and hopefully contribute offensively as well.”
That versatility could prove invaluable for the Mariners as they continue shaping their roster for the 2026-27 season. Whether it’s playing in a checking role, contributing on special teams, or providing offense when called upon, Works believes his willingness to adapt is one of his greatest strengths.
Just as important to him as stepping onto the ice is becoming part of the Mariners family away from it. “I’m looking forward to getting started and meeting all the guys,” he said. “I’ve only heard good things about the organization, and I am excited to take the ice in Portland.”
Those comments have become a common theme among players who choose Maine. Time and again, newcomers mention not only the organization’s professionalism but also the culture that has been built inside the locker room and throughout the city. For Works, hearing those positive reviews only reinforced his decision to sign.
Although he has yet to play a game in a Mariners sweater, Works already understands what hockey means to the people of Maine. He experienced the energy of Cross Insurance Arena firsthand during last spring’s playoffs, when every shift was met with deafening support from the home crowd. It’s an atmosphere he is eager to embrace rather than battle against.
As he prepares for training camp, Works also had a message for the fans who will soon be cheering him on. “All I would say is I look forward to getting to Portland and playing in front of the Mariners fans. Hopefully we give them a lot to cheer about this season.”
For Mariners fans, that should be an exciting thought. Jack Works arrives in Portland with championship experience, leadership qualities, and a relentless style of play that fits perfectly with the identity Rick Kowalsky has worked to establish. While his journey in Maine is only just beginning, one thing is already clear: he’s ready to get to work—and he’s eager to help the Mariners take another step toward bringing a Kelly Cup championship to Portland.
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