ECHL: Dylan Carabia Returns to the Gladiators’ Blue Line

The Atlanta Gladiators announced the return of defenseman Dylan Carabia for the 2025–26 season.

The 29-year-old from Sebastian, Florida, has been a fixture on Atlanta’s back end since 2022, appearing in over 180 ECHL games across three seasons. Last year, he suited up in 58 games, finishing with one goal, five assists, and 49 penalty minutes while logging heavy minutes on the penalty kill and in late-game situations (Atlanta Gladiators, 2025a).

A Defensive Identity

Carabia doesn’t shy away from defining his role. On the Signing Show, he called himself a defensive defenseman who thrives on shutting down opponents: “I like to give guys the illusion they have time and space, then close on them quick and end plays” (Atlanta Gladiators, 2025b). His focus is on winning battles at the net front, keeping forwards uncomfortable, and moving the puck into the hands of his teammates.

He also reflected on how his game has grown during his time in Atlanta:

“Yeah, I thought my defensive game took a step up a little bit and take pride in playing on the penalty kill and being out there in the crucial situations at the end of games, trying to secure a win” (Atlanta Gladiators, 2025b).

That pride in playing heavy minutes, especially on the penalty kill and late in tight games, has made him a trusted piece of the Gladiators’ blue line.

At 6’3” and 190 pounds, Carabia has the size to protect the crease, but he relies just as much on positioning and an active stick. He admitted he’s not always throwing highlight-reel hits, but he’s plenty physical when the game demands it. Fans also saw him drop the gloves more often last year — something he said he’s willing to continue as part of protecting teammates (Atlanta Gladiators, 2025b).

Early Pro Success

Before making the leap to the ECHL, Carabia broke into the professional ranks with the Pensacola Ice Flyers of the SPHL. In 2021–22, he put up 39 points (8g, 31a) in 55 games, earning spots on both the SPHL All-Rookie Team and the Second All-Star Team. He added another four assists in the playoffs, showing he could handle all situations and setting the stage for his move up to Atlanta the following season.

International Spotlight

Last year, Carabia added a new highlight to his career by representing Team USA at the 2024 Australian International Ice Hockey Cup. He led the entire tournament with 18 points (5g, 13a), finishing as the top scorer and assists leader while powering the Americans to an undefeated run and the championship — their first title since 2017 (Zehner, 2024). That performance showed Carabia can step into an offensive role when needed.

Coach and Player Perspective

Gladiators Head Coach Matt Ginn praised Carabia’s return:

“Dylan is a big body that plays the game hard. He takes pride in doing little things like blocking shots, finishing checks and being tough to play against. Dylan is a natural leader as well, and we are looking forward to having him back for another season.” (Atlanta Gladiators, 2025a)

Carabia echoed that commitment, saying Atlanta has been “nothing but a positive experience” and emphasizing his loyalty to the team and its fans. He pointed to nights like Thrashers Night as personal highlights, calling the packed-house atmosphere “a great time to play in front of our fans” (Atlanta Gladiators, 2025b).

What He Brings to Atlanta

Carabia’s value to Atlanta is clear. His reach and size make him difficult to play against in front of the net, and his willingness to block shots, kill plays quickly, and take tough assignments provides stability on the back end. He is a proven defender who thrives in late-game pressure situations, and a physical presence who is not afraid to stand up for teammates.

Carabia returns to the blue line as a two-way leader. For Gladiators fans, Carabia represents more than a dependable defender. He’s a player who has grown with the team, stayed loyal to the organization, and embraced the community both on and off the ice. His steady presence, willingness to do the little things, and proven ability to lead by example make him exactly the kind of player Atlanta can lean on as they prepare for another tough South Division season. Carabia’s return doesn’t just strengthen the blue line — it reinforces the team’s identity of grit, resilience, and pride in wearing the Gladiators crest.

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