The Atlanta Gladiators made two signings on Tuesday afternoon, adding forwards Ryan Cranford and Evan Dougherty for the 2023-24 season. Cranford, from Embrun, Ontario, Canada most recently played in the Ontario University Athletic Association for Queens University. Cranford racked up 22 goals in 72 games over three seasons. Cranford also played four seasons in the Ontario Hockey League for the Kingston Frontenacs. Cranford played 267 regular season games amassing 56 goals and 53 assists from 2015-2019. At 6 foot 204 pounds, Cranford will give the Gladiators some size up front.
Dougherty comes to the Gladiators from the great state of Michigan, where he played for the Michigan Nationals 16U team. Dougherty then made his way to Ohio to play college hockey with the Bowling Green State Falcons. Over five seasons, the 6’1″ Forward scored 17 goals while adding 9 helpers. The pair of forwards add to the five signings the Gladiators have made so far this off-season. Look for the Gladiators to add more signings in the upcoming weeks.
The Gladiators open the season on October 21st against the Savannah Ghost Pirates.
