ECHL Player Profile: Brenden Datema

Position: Defenseman
Birthplace: Sterling Heights, MI
Current Team: Atlanta Gladiators
Jersey Number: 5
College: Michigan Tech, Canisius College
Education: Bachelor’s in Sport Management, Master’s in Higher Education and Student Affairs

Brenden Datema, a formidable athlete standing at 6’5″ and weighing 220 pounds, was born on March 18, 1999, in Sterling Heights, MI. Brenden’s journey in ice hockey is marked by several notable accomplishments. However, beyond his achievements, he is also known for his dedication to the sport and his work ethic.

In the 2024-25 regular season, his first full season as a professional, he has played 24 games so far for Atlanta, recording two assists and accumulating 42 penalty minutes. In the previous 2023-24 season, he played 12 games for Atlanta, also with two assists.

Brenden Datema shared his thoughts on the season so far, especially the recent stretch of games where the team has been performing well. He attributed their success to the team’s health, with everyone being able to contribute fully. He emphasized the importance of winning battles on the boards and sticking to their practiced game strategies.

“Everybody’s hitting right now, getting in the corners, doing the dirty work. I think the board play and winning battles really helps the team, and sticking to what we’ve been practicing.”

He also highlighted the role of the team’s leadership in their success, noting that everyone knows what is expected of them and works hard to meet those expectations. Datema said, “They do their job every single night and do extra, honestly. But as far as people, it’s just easy to talk to ’em.”

Datema spoke more about the impact of experienced players like Derek Topatigh, Cody Sylvester and captain Eric Neiley. He appreciated how approachable these leaders are, mentioning that Neiley was their assistant coach before rejoining them on the ice this season, which has been beneficial for the younger players.

“Neil, Sly, and Topes have been great. They all bring a little bit of different leadership, but definitely leading by example is one of the top ones for every single one of them.”

-Datema, on the impact that Derek Topatigh, Cody Sylvester and Eric Neiley have for the team

In addition to his physicality, Datema has demonstrated leadership qualities of his own both on and off the ice. He has been praised for his work ethic and consistency, which were also apparent during his time in junior hockey and college. When speaking with him now, these attributes still ring true. His dedication and commitment are clearly evident when he talks about the sport.

“You just always got to work hard. Not that I had never have, but I like to stay a little extra, and I am pretty hard on myself to keep myself accountable.”

-Brenden Datema, on his work ethic

Reflecting again on his early start in hockey, Datema recalled his time in juniors under coach Rocky Russo, which had prepared him well for college. In his junior career, Datema had an outstanding season with the Amarillo Bulls in the NAHL, where he was named the 2018-19 NAHL Defenseman of the Year. He tallied 21 goals and 39 assists in 58 games, leading all NAHL defensemen with 60 points. This performance was the highest by a defenseman in the league since the 1988-89 season and the second-highest in NAHL history.

Although his first three years at Michigan Tech didn’t go as he had planned, he maintained a strong work ethic and consistency throughout. His move to Canisius College, where he played under Trevor Large, helped him find his game and enjoy his last two years of college hockey. Over the course of his collegiate play, Datema earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sport Management and later a Master’s degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs.

Looking ahead to the future, Datema expressed his desire to continue playing hockey for as long as possible. He has always dreamt of playing professionally and, after his playing career, he hopes to stay involved in hockey as either a coach or scout. “I love hockey so much and I love video. I’ll dissect anything with anybody,” he shared.

Datema offered advice to young players aspiring to reach elite levels, emphasizing the importance of being a good person and working hard. He believes that one’s character is judged first and that being a good person is the most important. He encouraged young players to stay true to themselves and to continue to work hard.

“Don’t let anybody tell you you can’t do anything because anything’s possible if you really put your mind to it. I truly believe in that. Just be a good person, be friendly. You don’t have to be cool guy or doing all the cool things that everybody else is doing. If it’s not what you want to do, stick to what you think is best for you. And obviously watch a lot of hockey too.”

-Brenden Datema

Datema’s ability to stay focused and committed, even when things don’t go as planned, is another strength that certainly comes through. He has shown resilience and a strong mental game, which are essential for any professional athlete. His dedication to his own continuous improvement and his passion for the sport are evident in his approach to the game when you speak to him.

That dedication to his career and his commitment shine through in everything he does, making him not just a remarkable athlete, but also a great person to work with and a fantastic representative for the game. Overall, Datema’s combination of physicality, leadership, work ethic, and resilience make him a valuable player.

“I love this game so much. I’ve been dreaming of this as a kid to to be able to play this every day as a job, it’s a dream come true. It’s still not a complete dream. Still got some parts to finish there, but I think I’m going to try to play as long as I can.”

-Brenden Datema

First Professional Goal – January 5, 2025