SPHL Roster Transactions: Macon Mayhem | 12/05/2024

Macon Mayhem Acquire Defensemen Thomas McGuire and Dustin Perillat, and Forwards Kyle Heitzner and Brodie Thornton.

Thomas McGuire

The Macon Mayhem announced that they have acquired defenseman Thomas McGuire from the Pensacola Ice Flyers for future considerations. McGuire, 25, from Massapequa Park, N.Y., has had a diverse and career so far. He made his SPHL debut this season with the Quad City Storm and was signed by the Ice Flyers after the first ten games of the season.

Prior to his professional career, McGuire played two seasons at NCAA Division-III Neumann University, scoring six points (1g, 5a) in 26 games. He made his professional debut with the FPHL’s Watertown Wolves in the 2022-23 season and finished the season with the Elmira Mammoth, totaling 12 points (5g, 7a) in 44 games.

McGuire began last season with Milenio Logroño in Spain and made his return to North America with the Baton Rouge Zydeco, where he scored seven points (2 goals, 5 assists) in the final 19 games of the season.

Since joining the SPHL, McGuire has continued to develop his game. This season, he has played 15 games with the Ice Flyers, recording eight points (2 goals, 6 assists). His strong defensive play and ability to contribute offensively make him a valuable addition to the Macon Mayhem.

Career Highlights:

NCAA Career: Played two seasons at Neumann University, scoring six points (1g, 5a) in 26 games.

Professional Debut: Made his professional debut with the FPHL’s Watertown Wolves in the 2022-23 season, finishing with 12 points (5g, 7a) in 44 games.

International Experience: Played for Milenio Logroño in Spain before returning to North America.

Baton Rouge Zydeco: Scored seven points (2g, 5a) in the final 19 games of the season.

SPHL Debut: Joined the Quad City Storm and later the Pensacola Ice Flyers, recording eight points (2g, 6a) in 15 games this season.


    On Tuesday, the Macon Mayhem announced that forward Kyle Heitzner and defenseman Dustin Perillat have signed with the team.

    Kyle Heitzner

    Kyle Heitzner, a 25-year-old forward from Brechin, Ontario, brings a wealth of experience to the Macon Mayhem. Standing at 5’10” and weighing 172 lbs, Heitzner began his professional career after playing two seasons with the OHL’s Barrie Colts, where he recorded 20 points (10 goals, 10 assists). He then moved on to the Quad City Storm in the SPHL, playing 14 games under head coach Dave Pszenyczny. Most recently, Heitzner has been a standout in the FPHL, scoring 39 points (19 goals, 20 assists) in just 29 games over parts of four seasons with the Watertown Wolves. His scoring ability and experience make him a valuable addition to the Mayhem’s roster.

    Junior Career:

    • Played two seasons with the OHL’s Barrie Colts
    • Recorded 20 points (10g, 10a)
    • Teammates with NHL star Andrei Svechnikov

    Professional Career:

    • Began with the Quad City Storm in the SPHL, playing 14 games
    • Moved to the FPHL with the Watertown Wolves
    • Scored 39 points (19g, 20a) in 29 games over parts of four seasons

    Dustin Perillat

    Dustin Perillat, a 27-year-old defenseman hailing from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, boasts a strong background in both junior and professional hockey. Standing at 5’11” and weighing 170 lbs, Perillat spent parts of two seasons in the WHL with the Moose Jaw Warriors and the Saskatoon Blades. This season, Perillat made his debut in American professional hockey with the Watertown Wolves in the FPHL, already accumulating 9 points (4g , 5a) in just 12 games. His defensive talents and recent achievements underline his potential to become a pivotal player for the Macon Mayhem.

    Junior Career:

    • Played parts of two seasons in the WHL with the Moose Jaw Warriors and the Saskatoon Blades
    • Teammates with Stanley Cup champion Brayden Point

    Professional Career:

    • Made his American pro-hockey debut with the Watertown Wolves in the FPHL
    • Recorded nine points (4g, 5a) in 12 games this season

    Finally, the Macon Mayhem announced Monday that forward Brodie Thornton also signed with the team.

    Brodie Thornton

    Thornton, a 25-year-old from Macomb Township, Michigan, is set to strengthen the Mayhem’s blue line. Previously listed as both a forward and defenseman, he has emerged as a standout player in the FPHL this season with the Baton Rouge Zydeco, amassing 15 points (7g, 8a) in just 17 games. His ability to play both sides of the puck will be an asset to the Mayhem.

    Starting his professional journey last season with the Binghamton Black Bears in the FPHL, Thornton played four seasons at ACHA M1 Adrian College from 2020 to 2024. During his time there, he tallied 72 points (23g, 49a) over 110 regular-season games. Notably, Thornton clinched two national championships at the ACHA M1 level and contributed a primary assist on the championship-winning goal in this year’s final against the University of Nevada-Las Vegas.

    Junior Career:

    • Played four seasons at ACHA M1 Adrian College (2020-2024)
    • Recorded 72 points (23g, 49a) in 110 regular-season games
    • Won two national championships at the ACHA M1 level
    • Had the primary assist on the championship-winning goal in the 2024 championship game against the University of Nevada-Las Vegas

    Professional Career:

    • Began professional career with the FPHL’s Binghamton Black Bears in 2023
    • Currently playing for the Baton Rouge Zydeco in the FPHL
    • Recorded 15 points (7g, 8a) in 17 games to start the 2024 season

    The Macon Mayhem will be traveling to compete against the Pensacola Ice Flyers on Friday, December 6th, at 7:05 PM CST.know!


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    Karen Zehner

    Inside The Rink ECHL Manager | Senior Editor | Credentialed Beat Writer covering the ECHL Atlanta Gladiators. Diving into the world of slap shots, penalty kills, and the game we love. [@RunwithK] on socials.

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