The Atlanta Gladiators have locked in another key piece to their blue line with the return of Brenden Datema for the 2024–25 season. The 6’5” right-shot defenseman brings a mix of size, grit, and a growing presence as he enters his third year with the team.
From NCAA Champion to ECHL Mainstay
Brenden Datema, 26, began his collegiate journey with Michigan Tech before transferring to Canisius College, where he helped lead the Golden Griffins to the 2023 Atlantic Hockey Championship and a berth in the NCAA tournament. Over his NCAA career, Datema appeared in 65 games and recorded 15 points, contributing with a steady presence on the blue line and flashes of offensive upside.
His championship run with Canisius capped a five-year college career marked by growth, physicality, and leadership—laying the groundwork for his transition to the professional ranks with Atlanta. a championship—and a smooth transition to the professional ranks with Atlanta.
Adjusting to the Pro Game
Last season marked Datema’s first full year as a pro—and a valuable learning experience he fully embraced. Transitioning from the NCAA to the ECHL can be challenging, but Datema credits the Gladiators’ locker room environment and veteran leadership for helping smooth that path.
“Just getting my first full year of pro underneath my belt… it made it a lot easier to adjust for sure,” Datema said during the team’s YouTube signing announcement. “Even the older guys just leaning on me, telling me a few helpful pointers here and there—it definitely all helps out” (Atlanta Gladiators, 2024a).
As the season progressed, Datema found his rhythm, logging heavy minutes and continuing to grow his game at both ends of the ice.
Why He’s Back for Year Three
Now entering his third season with the team, Datema says the decision to return to Atlanta was an easy one—fueled by trust, familiarity, and the strong culture that surrounds the organization.
“There’s a great culture in the locker room. Everybody loves each other there… The fans, the community has been great. When you have that, going back somewhere is really comforting” (Atlanta Gladiators, 2024a).
From the support of teammates to the bond with fans off the ice, Atlanta has become more than just a stop in his career, it’s become a second home.
Offensive Growth and a Game-Winning Goal
While known for his defensive reliability, Datema made his mark last season by scoring his first two professional goals—including a game-winner against Savannah.“We had Jar, Pierce, and Cranny all grinding out… I found myself all alone. The goalie was on his back, thank goodness,” he said of his first pro goal (Atlanta Gladiators, 2024a).
Heading into 2024–25, he’s aiming to expand his offensive role. “Yeah, I definitely think I can take another step in the offensive-minded world for me. Definitely getting more comfortable around the blue line, walking along the line, deceptions, you gotta be good… all your defenders too, the stat sheet, the game sheet, read the notes. But yeah, definitely try to do a little bit more of that this year.”
Gladiators Director of Hockey Operations and Head Coach Matt Ginn praised Datema’s presence both on and off the ice:
“Brenden plays a very physical style and uses his big frame effectively. He is hard to play against, and we expect that to continue. He is a well-liked teammate that will do whatever is needed to win. We’re excited to bring Brenden back for another season,” Ginn said (Atlanta Gladiators, 2024).
What Datema Brings to Atlanta
With the combination of physicality, locker room respect, and growing experience, Datema is poised to be a key piece on the blue line as the Gladiators build toward the 2024–25 campaign.
As Atlanta continues to build out its defensive group, Datema offers a physical edge and familiarity with the system. His willingness to block shots, battle in front of the net, and chip in offensively could make him an underrated but impactful piece of the Gladiators’ blue line this year.
Brenden Datema’s return will be on full display when the Atlanta Gladiators open their 2025–26 season on Saturday, October 18th, against the Utah Grizzlies. The action begins at 7:10 PM EDT at Gas South Arena, where fans can expect a high-energy night filled with hits, hype, and Gladiators pride. With Datema patrolling the blue line, the Gladiators are set to bring the intensity from puck drop to the final horn.
SOURCES:
Atlanta Gladiators. (2024a, July 26). Brenden Datema re-signs with the Atlanta Gladiators [Video]. YouTube.
Atlanta Gladiators. (2024b, July 26). Brenden Datema Re-Signs with Gladiators for Third Season in Atlanta.
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