The Atlanta Gladiators have added another offensive piece for 2025-26, signing forward Ryan Nolan, who brings scoring touch and grit from the SPHL and ECHL.
Coming off a career-best season with the Fayetteville Marksmen, Ryan Nolan played in 38 SPHL games, notching 17 goals and 21 assists for 38 points, along with 31 penalty minutes and a -1 rating. He added another two points (1G, 1A) in two playoff appearances.
He also saw ECHL action on loan with the Adirondack Thunder, skating in 16 games, contributing a goal and two assists, and logging 23 penalty minutes. His blend of offensive upside and physicality earned him valuable minutes in a higher-tier league, and now he makes his full-time jump to the ECHL with Atlanta.
A Closer Look at His Journey
Before turning pro, Nolan spent four NCAA seasons split between Merrimack College and Michigan State University. His college totals include 49 games played, two goals, six assists, and 20 penalty minutes—modest numbers that didn’t fully reflect his later scoring surge in the pros.
In the 2023-24 season, Nolan split time between Peoria and Fayetteville in the SPHL, combining for 24 goals and 30 assists over 62 regular-season games. The forward has shown consistent improvement with each season and brings a hard-working, physical edge to Atlanta’s forward group.
What to Expect in Atlanta
With his ability to chip in offensively and play a gritty, two-way game, he’ll look to carve out a regular role in the Gladiators’ lineup. His SPHL production suggests upside, and Atlanta’s system could be the perfect place for him to make his mark at the ECHL level.
Opening Night
The Atlanta Gladiators open their 2025-26 season at home against the Utah Grizzlies on Saturday, October 18th. Puck Drops: 7:00 PM EDT at Gas South Arena.
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