The Atlanta Gladiators are adding more size and snarl to their forward corps with the signing of 25-year-old Ryley Appelt for the 2025–26 ECHL season.
Appelt comes to Atlanta after completing a four-year collegiate career at Grant MacEwan University, where he wore the Griffins’ colors in 87 USports games. The Edmonton, Alberta native recorded nine goals and four assists over his time at the program, including one goal and one assist in 25 games during the 2024–25 season.
Standing at 6’3” and weighing 201 pounds, Appelt brings a combination of size, physicality, and positional versatility. The left-shot forward has experience at both center and wing, giving Head Coach Matt Ginn multiple lineup options.
Coach’s Confidence in Appelt
Gladiators Director of Hockey Operations and Head Coach Matt Ginn is confident that Appelt will make his presence felt immediately.
“Ryley is a big and tough forward that can play the middle or wing,” Ginn said. “He is a physical player that will stick up for his teammates and do whatever it takes to win. Ryley moves very well for a big guy and uses that skating ability effectively on the forecheck. We’re excited to add Ryley to our group and help him develop through his first season of pro hockey” (Atlanta Gladiators, 2025).
From the WHL to Pro Hockey
Before joining Grant MacEwan, Appelt developed his game in the WHL with the Kamloops Blazers, where he played in 161 regular-season contests and posted 19 goals and 13 assists. His WHL résumé includes six playoff appearances in 2019, where he added one goal.
Appelt also skated for the Northern Alberta X-Treme Prep program in the CSSHL U18, tallying 25 points in 23 games during the 2016–17 season. That same year, he made his WHL debut with Kamloops, scoring a goal in his first appearance. He also logged brief time in the AJHL with the Bonnyville Pontiacs.
First Impressions of Atlanta
Appelt didn’t hide his excitement about joining the Gladiators and making the jump to pro hockey.
“I’ve heard lots about Atlanta, lots of great things, and I’m excited to get down there, meet the boys, and start rolling… and hopefully lots of wins this year,” Appelt said (Appelt, 2025).
For a player coming from the harsh Canadian winters, there’s another perk he looks forward to.
“Being from Canada, it’s minus 35 in our winter, so some nice weather is going to be a little nicer on the body,” he added with a grin (Appelt, 2025).
Mindset for Game Day
While Appelt brings physicality to the ice, his focus for opening night is all about the fans and the atmosphere.
“That first shift—I think you can think about it only for so much. Until I take that step out and get in front of the fans, it’s going to be awesome. I think it shows there’s a love for hockey down south, and I’m excited to be playing in front of you guys,” Appelt said (Appelt, 2025).
Looking Ahead
Gladiators fans won’t have to wait long to see Appelt in action. Atlanta opens the 2025–26 season on Saturday, October 18, for Opening Night at Gas South Arena. The home crowd will be treated to pregame hype, big hits, loud fans, and electric energy from puck drop to the final horn as the Utah Grizzlies come to town for a 7:10 p.m. start.
With his size, speed, and eagerness to make an impact, Appelt has a prime opportunity to introduce himself to the league—and to Atlanta fans—right from the opening faceoff.
Sources:
Appelt, R. (2025, August 12). Ryley Appelt Player Signing Show Presented by Lippes Mathias [Video]. YouTube.
Atlanta Gladiators. (2025, August 12). Gladiators sign forward Ryley Appelt.
Discover more from Inside The Rink
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
