ECHL: Craig Martin Heads Overseas

Forward Craig Martin is heading overseas for the second time in his career as he will join the Manchester Storm of the EIHL. Martin began the 2022-23 season overseas in Slovakia, where he put up four goals and five assists for nine points in 20 games before re-joining the Jacksonville Icemen in December of 2022. He became the second player from Jacksonville to take the overseas route after the season ended, joining Jacob Panetta. This is a huge loss for the Icemen, as Martin has been a staple for the Icemen since joining the team in November of 2019.

The 29-year-old forward has spent five seasons in the ECHL with the Adirondack Thunder and Jacksonville Icemen, putting up 68 goals and 98 assists for 166 points in 230 career games. Martin is tied for first in franchise goals (67), second in all-time games played (223), and points (164). The Trail, BC native has added seven goals and 13 assists for 20 points in 22 career Kelly Cup Playoff Games. He would also play three games at the AHL level with the Charlotte Checkers during the 2021-22 season.

Prior to going pro, Martin would spend four years in the BCHL with the Trail Smoke Eaters, Vernon Vipers, and Alberni Valley Bulldogs, putting up 44 goals and 54 assists for 98 points in 137 games. Martin would then take the NCAA route, where he would play four years at Quinnipiac University, where he put 27 goals and 48 assists for 75 points in 134 games. The Bobcats would win the ECAC Championship in 2016.