On Friday July 10th, the Atlanta Gladiators sent shock waves around the ECHL with the signing of veteran forward, Michael Pelech, for the 2020/21 season.
The experienced forward ranks fourth all-time in ECHL games played with 705 appearances over 11 seasons in the league, the highest among active players. Pelech joins the Atlanta Gladiators having spent the last two seasons with the Greenville Swamp Rabbits in the South Division. During his tenure there, Pelech racked up 34 goals and 84 assists for 118 points. Along with 191 penalty minutes, he managed to do so in 135 games.
It goes without saying that the 30-year-old brings a huge amount of experience to Gwinnett county. Head coach Jeff Pyle continues to assemble the 2020/21 squad with a balanced blend of youth and experience. Like all of the Glads summer signings, Pelech is a hard working two-way skater, so he will feel right at home in Atlanta. He is very handy in the face-off circle and will set a great example to the rest of the roster.
Gladiators president Jerry James told the team’s website in a statement on Friday, “The addition of Michael to our roster should be seen as a major move by our fans and other teams.” In conclusion, he want on to say, “Our entire organization is thrilled to welcome a player of his status and experience. He fits our system well and will make an immediate impact.”