Armand Klisivitch from Inside the Rink recently caught up with Atlanta Gladiator’s forward Mitch Fossier, who was named MVP of the 2024 Warrior/ECHL All-Star Classic. Fossier was called up to play for the San Jose Barracudas (AHL) just days before the game but was, fortunately, able to participate in the All-Star Classic, where the forward went on to put on an impressive display for the fans who were in attendance. Fossier scored two goals & was credited with five assists in the 18-11 win for the All-Stars.
Fossier, who hails from Alpharetta, GA, was honored to participate in the event on behalf of his Atlanta teammates. “Obviously, it’s a privilege to be able to play in the All-Star Game and represent your team, ” he said. So it was a lot of fun. All the guys here were super nice. It’s cool to meet a lot of these guys that you play against and compete against, and it’s even cooler that it’s in my hometown.”
Fossier is no stranger to demonstrating leadership both on and off the ice and took being named to the All-Star team and his selection as an Atlanta Gladiators’ Alternate Captain to heart. When asked how he felt about the accolade, he said, “Yeah, obviously another honor. I didn’t really expect it, to be honest, just that being my first year there. So, I was surprised but honored. Obviously, I’m a little bit of an older guy on the team, so it puts some responsibility on me, but responsibility that is a privilege to have.”
It is no secret that the Atlanta Gladiators have had a tough season to date, but Fossier is hopeful that the team can have a great second half. “I think it’s always fun in the second half, he said.” You’re a team by that point, so you care about the guy next to you, you know everyone well on your team. That’s where it gets fun, you get to go for a playoff push and things really matter down the stretch. It’s just closer and closer to playoff hockey, which is fun.”
Fossier has recently returned to Atlanta from his PTO contract with San Jose and has rejoined the Gladiators’ lineup. The Atlanta Gladiators will face off against the Orlando Solar Bears on Saturday, January 27th, in Orlando, with a puck drop of 7 PM.
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