ECHL: Atlanta’s Jackson Pierson Signs with Herforder EV

After logging two full seasons with the Atlanta Gladiators—including an iron-man campaign in 2024–25—forward Jackson Pierson has signed with Herforder EV of Germany’s third-tier league for the upcoming 2025–26 season. The move marks the next step in a quietly impressive career built on vision, consistency, and understated leadership.

Atlanta’s “Iron-Man” Forward Heads Overseas

Pierson was one of only two Gladiators to appear in all 72 games during the 2024–25 season. He recorded 11 goals and 26 assists for 37 points, finishing third in team scoring. Known for his high hockey IQ and calm under pressure, Pierson contributed in all situations—power play, penalty kill, faceoffs, and late-game defensive shifts. While his point total dipped slightly from the previous year (where he tallied 17 goals and 26 assists), his role as a stabilizing presence never once wavered.

From NCAA Mainstay to ECHL Producer

Before turning pro, Pierson built a five-year NCAA career that began at the University of New Hampshire, where he played four seasons. As a freshman in 2018–19, he posted eight goals and 11 assists for 19 points in 32 games. He followed that with two goals and 18 assists in 26 games during the 2019–20 campaign. His offensive production picked up again in 2020–21, where he tallied nine goals and 16 assists (25 points) in just 23 games. In his final season at UNH in 2021–22, Pierson wore an “A” and finished with 12 goals and 12 assists over 34 games.

He transferred to Notre Dame for his graduate year in 2022–23, where he contributed a goal and eight assists in 31 games. After college, Pierson made his professional debut with the Fort Wayne Komets, appearing in six ECHL games before joining the Gladiators full-time.

Across two seasons in Atlanta, Pierson appeared in 144 regular season games, recording 28 goals and 52 assists for 80 points. In 2023–24, he wore an “A” and led the team in total assists while ranking among its top point producers. Between his NCAA and ECHL experience, Pierson proved to be a durable, intelligent forward who could adapt to any role.

What He Brings to Herforder EV

Herforder EV will gain a well-rounded forward with strong hockey instincts, excellent puck distribution, and a proven track record in high-level North American hockey. Pierson’s ability to read plays in transition, create chances in tight spaces, and contribute on both special teams makes him a perfect fit for the European game.

Beyond his skill set, Pierson also brings professionalism, endurance, and leadership. His back-to-back 72-game seasons in Atlanta—never missing a contest—reflect his work ethic and reliability, both on and off the ice.

Final Thoughts

Jackson Pierson’s departure leaves a significant gap in Atlanta’s forward group—not only in production, but in quiet consistency and locker room leadership. As the Gladiators shift into a new era under head coach Matt Ginn, replacing Pierson’s two-way impact won’t be easy.

But his next chapter is one worth celebrating. From a strong NCAA career to becoming one of Atlanta’s most trusted skaters, Pierson has earned this opportunity overseas. Herforder EV is gaining more than just a smart forward—they’re gaining a player who shows up every shift, every game, and every season.