Eric Neiley Says Goodbye to the Gladiators—Again

Eric Neiley’s storied journey with the Gladiators has come to a heartfelt end—again.

After signing an ECHL contract on July 24, 2024, for the 2024-25 season, the 32-year-old forward made his much-anticipated return to the ice. Neiley had previously retired following the 2022-23 campaign, where he notched an impressive 44 points (25 goals, 19 assists) in just 50 games. But the pull of the game brought him back for one more run.

During his brief time away from playing, Neiley joined head coach Derek Nesbitt’s staff, serving as an assistant behind the bench for the 2023-24 season. When he re-signed with the team last summer, Nesbitt couldn’t hide his excitement.

“I’m so excited to have Neiley back out there competing again,” Nesbitt said at the time. “That’s who he is—an absolute competitor. He’s a huge boost for our leadership group and the kind of player who can drag your team into a fight when needed during the grind of the ECHL season. I can’t wait to see him back in the paint, scoring hard goals again!”

But the comeback proved to be short-lived. In an emotional address to fans during the Gladiators’ final home game of the 2024-25 season, Neiley officially announced his re-retirement, citing physical wear and tear as the driving factor in his decision.

Before his professional career began, Neiley made a name for himself at Dartmouth College, playing in 129 games over four seasons and tallying 94 points (45 goals, 49 assists). He also skated in the American Hockey League with the Providence Bruins on two occasions, further solidifying his place in the upper tiers of professional hockey.

Though this marks the final chapter of Neiley’s on-ice career, his impact on the Gladiators and the ECHL as a whole will be remembered fondly. His legacy: leadership, passion, and a relentless competitive fire.