The Atlanta Gladiators are continuing to shape their 2025–26 roster, and the latest addition comes on the blue line with defenseman Jack Robilotti. At 24 years old and standing 6-foot-3, 194 pounds, Robilotti brings both size and mobility to a defense corps that has already added grit and depth this offseason.
Robilotti was acquired on June 20 as part of a trio of trades to complete trade obligations from the 2024–25 season, officially securing his rights for Atlanta. Before arriving in the pro ranks, Robilotti built a steady foundation through a five-year NCAA career.
College Foundation
Robilotti arrives in Atlanta after finishing his collegiate career at UMass-Lowell in 2024–25, where he recorded two goals and four assists across 36 games. Before that, he spent four years at the College of the Holy Cross, suiting up in 125 games and tallying six goals and 11 assists. His steady two-way play earned him alternate captain duties as a senior in 2023–24, when he chipped in nine points over 35 games and logged a career-high 35 penalty minutes, underscoring his willingness to battle in tough spots.
First Taste of Pro Hockey
That hard-nosed style translated quickly to the pro level. Robilotti joined the Bloomington Bison late last season, skating in eight games and picking up his first ECHL assist while adding two penalty minutes. His defensive positioning and physical edge stood out, even in a small sample size, giving Atlanta a preview of a player eager to take on bigger minutes this fall.
Coach’s Perspective
Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operations Matt Ginn sees Robilotti as a player built for the pro game.
“Jack is a big, long defenseman that is tough to play against. He got a taste of professional hockey last season, and we expect him to use that experience and take a step this season. He uses his reach and his feet effectively to keep players to the outside and end plays. We are excited to add Jack to our group” (Atlanta Gladiators, 2025a).
Ready for Atlanta
Robilotti says the chance to continue his pro journey in Atlanta is one he’s eager to seize.
“I’m super excited to get down to Atlanta. I think first and foremost, it’s just about the organization. I’ve heard nothing but good things… I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity to get down there to play for the Gladiators” (Atlanta Gladiators, 2025b; Robilotti Signing Show, 2025).
He added that Atlanta represents more than just a new hockey stop — it’s also a lifestyle shift:
“I’m actually pretty excited that I don’t really have to pack a winter coat and snow boots this year. I’ve lived all my life in New England… so I’m excited that I don’t have to pack a parka or my snow boots and get in the driveway and start shoveling” (Robilotti Signing Show, 2025).
But beyond enjoying warmer weather, Robilotti knows his game has to make an impact:
“I think my style is about being a reliable defender first, but also using my skating to move the puck and create offense when the opportunity’s there. That’s the part of my game I’m excited to bring to Atlanta” (Robilotti Signing Show, 2025).
What He Brings to the Gladiators
Robilotti described his style as one that blends physicality with poise, something Atlanta fans will appreciate.
“I like to consider myself more of a two-way defenseman. Yes, I take pride in defending our own zone with my reach and skating ability, but I also like to jump up into the play and create secondary offense… I love getting matched up against the other team’s best forward lines because I feel that’s when I play my best” (Robilotti Signing Show, 2025).
With over 160 NCAA games and nearly 20 career points from the blue line, Robilotti offers more than just steady numbers. He consistently logged heavy defensive minutes, finishing his collegiate career with 185 penalty minutes and a track record of physical, committed play. His final season at UMass-Lowell saw him post a plus-6 rating, showing his ability to tilt the ice in his team’s favor. That balance of toughness, mobility, and defensive awareness positions him to make an immediate impact in Atlanta.
Atlanta hosts the Utah Grizzlies on Saturday, October 18 at 7:10 p.m. for Opening Night at Gas South Arena — and Robilotti will be one of the fresh faces to watch when the puck drops on the new season.
SOURCES:
Atlanta Gladiators. (2025a, August 19). Defenseman Jack Robilotti signs with Gladiators.
Atlanta Gladiators. (2025b, August 19). Jack Robilotti Player Signing Show presented by Lippes Mathias [Video]. YouTube.
Discover more from Inside The Rink
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
