A Georgia-Born Dream Continues
The Atlanta Gladiators have re-signed hometown forward Connor Galloway for the 2025–26 season, marking his second year with the team. A native of Sugar Hill, Georgia, Galloway’s return is not only a continuation of his professional journey—it’s a full-circle moment rooted in pride, grit, and local loyalty.
In 47 games during the 2024–25 season, Galloway posted three goals and four assists while adjusting to the pro level.
Gladiators Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operations Matt Ginn praised Galloway’s rookie season:
“Connor got his first taste of pro hockey last season and impressed everyone in the organization with his professionalism,” Ginn said. “He did whatever was asked of him and competed day in and day out. We expect Connor to take another step now after having a year of pro hockey under his belt and are excited to see him continue to develop” (Atlanta Gladiators, 2025).
DIII Star to ECHL Contributor
Before turning pro, Galloway played three seasons at SUNY-Brockport, where he tallied 78 points (30g, 48a) across 75 games. He led the team in scoring during his final year, notching seven goals and 12 assists in 25 games.
His junior background includes time with the Boston Jr. Rangers in the EHL, where he wore the captain’s “C” and recorded 38 points in 35 games in 2019–20.
A Moment Worth Remembering
Connor Galloway scored his first professional goal on January 12, 2025, in a 5–3 win over the Cincinnati Cyclones—marking more than just a milestone on the scoresheet. It was a hometown dream realized.
“At the end of the day, it’s a dream come true,” Galloway said. “Coming from the Division III level, it’s a huge jump. And to be able to get that opportunity and then prove myself, it was such a special moment, and especially to be in my hometown.” (Atlanta Gladiators, 2025).
Perhaps no one felt it more than his mom, Valerie Galloway. “I almost—I was right down there. I know I embarrassed the crap out of him,” she said. “I’m leaning over the thing, just screaming at Connor and everybody. I just couldn’t hardly stand up. I flipped myself over.”
Her excitement was a snapshot of everything the moment meant: the local kid making good, scoring for his hometown team in front of the people who had cheered him on since the beginning. Now, he looks forward to getting another chance to make the hometown crowd—and his family—even prouder.
Looking Ahead
With Atlanta announcing signings live every Tuesday and Thursday on their YouTube channel, Galloway joins a growing roster that includes defensive anchor Andrew Jarvis and new forward Ryan Nolan. The Gladiators are building a competitive group for 2025–26—and their homegrown forward is right in the mix. Galloway’s continued development will be one to watch—not just for fans, but for the community that watched him rise from local rinks to the ECHL.
The Atlanta Gladiators will open their 2024-25 season at home on Saturday, October 19th, 2024, against the Utah Grizzlies. Puck Drops: 7:10 PM EDT at Gas South Arena.
Sources:
- Atlanta Gladiators. (2025, July). Connor Galloway Re-Signs with the Gladiators for the 2025-26 Season.
- Atlanta Gladiators YouTube Channel – Live Signing Announcement, July 2025
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