The Atlanta Gladiators are bringing back one of their most reliable blue-liners, re-signing Andrew Jarvis for the 2025–26 season. The 28-year-old defenseman returns to Atlanta’s blue line for his fifth pro season, bringing grit, leadership, and a defense-first mindset after a career year.
Jarvis made it clear during a recent team livestream that his decision to return wasn’t just about hockey—it was about culture. “The culture—the guys, the staff, the management—we all took care of each other. That’s something I’m really looking forward to repeating,” Jarvis said. (Atlanta Gladiators, 2025)
That mindset made him a go-to option for Atlanta’s penalty kill and shutdown assignments last season. Whether blocking shots, battling along the boards, or clearing out the crease, Jarvis did the dirty work and embraced it.
Career Year in 2024–25
Last season, Jarvis put up the best numbers of his professional career, appearing in 59 games and recording six goals, seven assists, and 13 points. His offensive totals more than doubled his previous career highs. Before last year, Jarvis was known primarily as a stay-at-home defender, but in 2024–25, he proved he could chip in on the scoresheet while staying true to his defensive roots.
Jarvis also logged 40 penalty minutes and was trusted in shutdown situations, key defensive assignments, and penalty kill minutes. His six goals marked the first time in his career that he found the back of the net as a pro—an achievement he took pride in.
Defense Comes First
Even after a breakout offensive season, Jarvis stays true to his identity as a defense-first player. He models his game after smaller, smart defensemen who rely on positioning, quick reads, and relentless effort to win battles. At 5’9”, Jarvis might not be the biggest guy on the ice, but he uses his physical style and hockey IQ to consistently shut down plays and outwork opponents.
“I can’t stand being on the ice getting scored on,” Jarvis said. “Never want to be in video the next day. So I always just want to be defensively responsible and just use my body, use my stick as much as I can to shut down the other teams.” (Atlanta Gladiators, 2025)
Jarvis embraces the tough assignments, taking on key penalty kill minutes and defensive zone starts for Atlanta. He blocks shots, ties up sticks, and finishes checks in the corners—doing the gritty work that doesn’t always show up on the stat sheet but often changes games. Night after night, his defensive efforts make a clear impact for the Gladiators.
Pro Experience and Journey So Far
Before arriving in Atlanta, Jarvis spent two seasons with the Allen Americans and one with the Tulsa Oilers. In 2023–24, he skated in 44 games for Allen, tallying three assists and 69 penalty minutes. The year prior, he played 46 games for Tulsa and notched nine assists with 62 PIM. In his first stint with Allen in 2021–22, Jarvis appeared in 11 games and added three assists.
His pro career followed a successful run at Carleton University, where he wore a letter as an alternate captain. During his college years, Jarvis appeared in 89 USports games, recording three goals, 18 assists, and 21 points, along with 46 penalty minutes. His path from Canadian university hockey to a key role in the ECHL speaks to his work ethic and steady development.
Looking Ahead to 2025–26
Jarvis will once again be counted on to bring physicality, leadership, and a defensive edge to the Gladiators’ blue line this season. With his combination of shutdown skills and newfound offensive confidence, he’s expected to play a significant role as Atlanta battles through the always-tough South Division.
Fans can expect the same gritty, no-nonsense style from Jarvis—blocking shots, making the smart play, and standing up for his teammates. And if last season is any indication, they might see a few more goals from No. 6 as well. He’ll have an opportunity to showcase those skills right away when the Gladiators open the 2025–26 season on Saturday, October 18, hosting the Utah Grizzlies at Gas South Arena with a puck drop of 7:10 PM EDT.
Source: Atlanta Gladiators YouTube Livestream. (2025, July 10). Glads Player Signing Livestream with Q&A.
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