Jacksonville Icemen Announce First Player Signing

Former Alaska and Stockton Captain, Garet Hunt, Brings Leadership & Toughness to Icemen

Jacksonville, FL – The Jacksonville Icemen today introduced the first player to sign with the new ECHL team, left winger, Garet Hunt.

“I’m thrilled to be coming to the Icemen,” said the 29 year old (born October 14 – the same date as the Icemen opener) ECHL veteran Garet Hunt. “I’ve played out west for the last seven seasons against teams coached by Jason Christie.  We’ve always shared a mutual respect and I’m excited to now be part of his team. He shared with me the great response that the Jacksonville community has shown to having pro hockey back in town.  I look forward to joining the Jacksonville community.”

A native of Maple Ridge, British Columbia, the 5’9” forward and former captain of the ECHL Alaska Aces and Stockton Thunder is a fan favorite due to his rugged style of play.  In 565 ECHL games, he has accumulated 79 goals, 45 assists (124 points) and 2,177 penalty minutes (PIM).  He began his pro career in 2008-09 with the ECHL Stockton Thunder.  He has seen action with Springfield and Worcester in the American Hockey League.

“Wait until Icemen fans see Garet play,” said Icemen VP Hockey Operations/Head Coach, Jason Christie.  “He puts it all out there every night, not afraid of anyone in the League.  His aggressive play will create opportunities for us.  I’ve coached against him for six years and can tell you I’ll sleep better knowing we are on the same side. He is a leader on the ice, in the locker room and in the community.  Icemen fans will love him.”

The Icemen expect additional player announcements in the next few weeks.

About Jacksonville Icemen: The Jacksonville Icemen, proud affiliate for the Winnipeg Jets and Manitoba Moose, announced they were awarded an ECHL membership in February 2017, beginning with the 2017-18 season. The Icemen begin their 72 game season at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena on Saturday, October 14 against the Orlando Solar Bears. Season tickets, partial plans, and group tickets are on sale now by calling 904-602-7825 or visiting JacksonvilleIcemen.com. Individual game tickets will go on sale in mid-September.