The Macon Mayhem announced on Friday that rookies Ethan Matchim and Tanner Hopps have officially signed with the team for the 2024-25 season.
Ethan Matchim is a Canadian hockey player from Calgary, Alberta. He plays as a defenseman and stands out with at a height of 6’5″ and a weight of 216 lbs. Throughout his career, Matchim has played for several teams, such as the North Okanagan Knights in the KIJHL (now known as the Quesnel River Rush) , the Swan Valley Stampeders in the MJHL, and the Campbell River Storm in the VIJHL. Most recently, he suited up for Sollefteå HK in Sweden’s Division 2 league, where he participated in 25 games, netting one goal and contributing seven assists.
Matchim is recognized for his exceptional defensive skills and imposing physical presence on the ice, standing at 6’5″ and weighing 216 lbs. His playing style is defined by strong defensive abilities, where he effectively positions himself to block shots and disrupt opponents. Matchim is not afraid to engage in physical play, often winning puck battles and safeguarding his goaltender. Despite being primarily a defensive player, he demonstrates solid puck handling skills, enabling him to make intelligent passes that can initiate offensive opportunities. His consistency in performance makes him a reliable asset on the blue line, contributing to his team’s overall defensive strength.
Matchim is set to bring his strong defensive skills and physical presence to the Macon Mayhem in his rookie season in the SPHL. He could enhance the team’s defense by utilizing his size and defensive abilities, while also contributing offensively with assists and occasional goals as added value. Additionally, he should be expected to quickly adapt to the league’s pace and style of play, demonstrating consistency and reliability on the ice.
Tanner Hopps is a Canadian forward hailing from North Delta, British Columbia. He stands 5’11″ tall and weighs 181 lbs. Hopps dedicated the last two seasons of his hockey career to playing at Trinity Western University, located in Canada. During this time, he made a significant impact on the ice by accumulating a total of 35 career points, which comprised 10 goals and 25 assists, all achieved over the course of 56 games. Prior to his tenure at Trinity Western, he showcased his skills with the Drayton Valley Thunder in the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL). During his time with the Thunder, he had an impressive performance, racking up a remarkable 109 points, which included 34 goals and 75 assists, across 106 games played.
Hopps received the All-American Scholar from the American Hockey Coaches Association (AHCA) for the 2020-21 season. This prestigious recognition is granted to student-athletes who maintain a GPA of 3.6 or above, showcasing his dedication to excellence both in academics and on the ice. In November 2022, he earned the title of Canada West Men’s Hockey Player of the Week following an impressive four-point performance during Trinity Western’s weekend split against MacEwan.
Hopps is a forward known for his offensive talent on the ice. His exceptional playmaking ability allows him to create scoring chances for his teammates, thanks to his keen vision. Additionally, his speed and agility enable him to navigate through defenses effectively, generating scoring opportunities. With a notable scoring touch, reflected in his impressive point totals during his junior and university hockey career, Hopps showcases his ability to find the back of the net. His versatility allows him to adapt to various offensive roles, enhancing his team’s scoring potential in diverse situations.
Hopps is poised to make a significant impact in his professional debut by boosting the team’s offense through his playmaking skills and scoring ability. His versatility will allow him to adapt to different roles and situations, adding flexibility to the lineup.
While Matchim’s game revolves around strong defensive skills and physicality, Hopps emphasizes offensive production and playmaking. Both players will contribute valuable skills to their team, but their roles and impacts on the ice are distinctly different. The Mayhem kick off their season at the Macon Coliseum on October 19th, facing off against the Birmingham Bulls at home.
