The Madison Capitols have signed Aiden Ali to a tender agreement for the 2026-27 season. The defenseman from Vernon Hills, Illinois, played for Little Caesars 15U AAA during the 2025-26 season.

Capitols Head Coach and General Manager Andy Brandt touched on Aiden's game and character:

"Aiden shows impressive maturity in his game for a young player. He plays with a strong, balanced base that supports a physical style and uses smooth, efficient skating to consistently close plays defensively. He is also a reliable puck mover who makes high-percentage decisions to transition his team out of the defensive zone. Over the past month, our communication with Aiden has highlighted his strong understanding of the game and his motivation to be coached. We are excited for the opportunity to work with him and support his continued development."

This season, Ali helped guide Little Caesars to the Tier I 15O National Championships in Green Bay. To go along with his success at the AAA level, Ali recorded four points in five games at the OHL Cup.

"Aiden is a big, strong, and physically mature player who defends extremely well," said Capitols Director of Scouting Justin Friedman. "He's tough, hard nosed, and a physical player who competes hard and makes you earn every inch. It's obviously a challenge to play in our league at 16, but we feel he's prepared to take that step."

By signing the tender agreement, Ali becomes the second player to lock in his spot on the 2026-27 version of the Capitols joining tendered forward Quinn Kaiser. The agreements with both Ali and Kaiser take the place of the Capitols first and second-round selections in the 2026 USHL Phase I Draft, which will take place on Monday, May 4.

"I chose the Capitols because of the strong development path and reputation for helping players grow both on and off the ice," said Ali. "From everything I've seen and heard, it's a place where hard work and team culture really matter. I'm excited for the opportunity to compete, improve my game, and be part of such a respected organization. I can't wait to get started and contribute however I can."

Ali becomes the sixth tendered player in team history, fifth in Brandt's tenure with the organization. He joins Stephen Cover, Will Felicio, Quinn Kaiser, Jet Kwajah, and Michael Tang as the only tenders in team history.