ATLANTA, GA — The Atlanta Gladiators hosted their inaugural State of the Glads event on Wednesday night, giving fans a comprehensive look at the team’s 2025–26 direction through a virtual livestream on their official YouTube channel.
The event celebrated offseason changes, new hires, enhanced fan experiences, and a unified rallying cry: One Battle.
Team President Jared Youngman opened the presentation by anchoring the evening around a central theme: community. “Wayne Gretzky once said the best thing about hockey is the people you meet, and I couldn’t agree more,” Youngman shared. The sentiment echoed throughout the program, reinforcing the organization’s mission to connect with fans beyond the ice.
Front Office Growth & Leadership
The Gladiators’ front office has seen significant expansion this offseason, nearly doubling in size. Led by Owner Alex Campbell and President Jared Youngman, the leadership team now includes returning staff like Trevor Wimmer (Director of Ticket Sales), Kari Reed (Business Operations Manager), and Alix Caldwell (Finance & Administration Director), alongside new faces bringing fresh energy.
New additions and/or promotions include:
- Abby Louangoudom, Marketing Coordinator
- Emma Schnibbe, Social Media Coordinator
- Emma Harp, Group Sales Account Executive & Game Night MC
Director of Broadcasting and Communications Guy Chiarenza has kept fans in the loop all summer long, with his signing announcement videos becoming a hit for fans each week. From excited fan reactions and engaging Q & A, to teammates chiming in on YouTube, it’s clear the Glads’ offseason moves have energized the locker room and the fanbase alike.
Hockey Operations
On the hockey side, the Glads are geared up for battle with Matt Ginn stepping in as Head Coach. Known for his development-first approach and sharp hockey IQ, Ginn is ready to shape a team that competes every night. He’s joined by Assistant Coach Zach Vinnell, a rising mind behind the bench who brings fresh energy and insight to the role.
It’s a team behind the team—and they’re ready to help this roster fire on all cylinders.
Community Connection & Events
Community outreach remains a top priority heading into the 2025–26 season. Derek Nesbitt, now serving as Director of Community Engagement, will continue leading fan-forward initiatives for the team. Highlights include the return of the popular Stats Shred event and the team’s role in one of the most impactful moments so far this summer: the Special Olympics Skating Camp at The Ice in Cumming. The inclusive clinic—hosted in partnership with Grey Altemeyer of Deerfield Academy, Miracle Sk8ters, Sparks Special Olympics, and Special Olympics Georgia—brought smiles to the ice and underscored the Gladiators’ commitment to making hockey a space where everyone feels welcome.
Season Highlights and Fan Experience
The Gladiators reported a 67% increase in season ticket packages, strong social media growth, and deeper community engagement metrics heading into the new campaign.
This season’s theme nights promise to be as memorable as ever, with standout events including:
Theme Nights return with fan-favorite and new events: Bluey & Bingo, Dia de los Muertos, Golf Night, Weddings on Ice, and the Teddy Bear Toss, where the Glads are aiming to top their 2023 record of 15,067 stuffed animals tossed just 51 seconds into the game.
The team also teased that new jersey designs are expected to debut this fall, signaling a refreshed visual identity aligned with the team’s evolving brand.
One Battle: A Rallying Cry
The team’s new rally cry, One Battle, was officially unveiled during the event—and it’s more than just a catchphrase. It represents a shared mission that spans players, staff, and fans. Whether in the locker room or the stands, the Gladiators are calling on the entire hockey family to take part in building something bigger than wins and losses.
“This year, One Battle is what we want everyone to feel,” said President Jared Youngman. “Whether you’re a player, a fan, or someone working the gates—you’re part of this with us.”
It’s about grinding for every shift, backing your teammates, and believing in the crest on the front of the jersey. It’s about fans showing up on Friday nights, kids waving signs behind the glass, and front office staff working tirelessly to grow the game in Georgia.
One Battle is the unity between players, staff, and supporters who never stop pushing—on the ice, in the community, and for the future of hockey in the South.
Because in Atlanta, they’re not just playing games. They’re building something bigger.
With every shift, every blocked shot, and every moment behind the scenes, the Gladiators are fighting with purpose.
It’s not just about wins—it’s about heart, culture, and accountability.
One Battle isn’t a slogan. It’s their mission.
And it shows.
Looking Ahead
The State of the Glads didn’t just inform—it inspired. With a bigger staff, fresh energy, and a clear identity emerging, the Atlanta Gladiators are positioning themselves to be more than just a team this season. They’re building a movement.
Opening Night is October 18 at Gas South Arena.
For the Gladiators the battle begins now—and everyone’s invited.
SOURCE:L Atlanta Gladiators. (2025, August 20). State of the Glads – 2025-26 Season Update [Video]. YouTube.
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