Kaid Oliver, a former forward with the Atlanta Gladiators, is heading to Australia this summer to represent the USA Eagles in the 2025 Australian International Ice Hockey Cup. The tournament attracts players from around the world, featuring a high-tempo mix of national and select teams.
It’s not unfamiliar territory for the Atlanta Gladiators either. Last summer, Zach Yoder and Dylan Carabia both suited up for the USA Eagles, helping lead the team to the championship. Now, Oliver joins the list of Atlanta alumni who’ve taken part in the growing summer showcase.
A Growing International Tradition
The tournament has gained popularity as an off-season destination for professional and elite-level players, who seek to stay sharp while promoting the game on a global scale. This year, the tournament will be held from July 3rd to July 15th in both Sydney and Erina, Australia, attracting teams from around the world in a fast-paced, competitive format. Previous editions have included national programs and select squads, with the USA Eagles as the defending champions. (Australian Ice Hockey Cup,2025).
From WHL Roots to Global Ice
Oliver made his mark in junior hockey with the Victoria Royals, becoming a key piece thanks to his two-way play. His offensive production ramped up late in his WHL career, and by the time he moved to the Edmonton Oil Kings, he’d proven he could be both reliable and versatile.
Oliver made a fantastic debut in the ECHL with the Iowa Heartlanders, racking up an impressive 50 points in his rookie season. He even got a chance to showcase his skills with the AHL’s Iowa Wild for a game. In the 2022–23 season, he joined the Gladiators, where he played in 70 games and contributed 14 goals.
Off to Europe—and Now, Australia
After his season in Atlanta, Oliver took his game overseas, joining the Tilburg Trappers in Germany’s Oberliga. He notched 25 points across the regular season and playoffs. Oliver did not appear on a professional roster during the 2024–25 season, making his upcoming stint with the USA Eagles in the Australian tournament his first hockey action in over a year.
Oliver is now set to wear the red, white, and blue for the USA Eagles. The tournament will run from July 3rd to 15th, 2025.
Follow the action: For game updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes coverage, check out the tournament’s official Facebook page at facebook.com/australianicehockeycup.
Australian Ice Hockey Cup. (2024). About the Tournament. https://australianicehockeycup.com
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