Gladiators Bring Back Brenden Datema for Third Season in Atlanta

The Atlanta Gladiators announced live on the team’s YouTube channel Thursday evening that defenseman Brenden Datema will be returning for the 2025-26 season.

This marks Datema’s third season with the Gladiators, the club he’s called home since turning pro in March 2024. The 26-year-old blueliner originally joined Atlanta late in the 2023-24 campaign, appearing in 12 games and tallying two assists. Last season, he suited up for 48 contests, recording two goals and five assists for seven points, including his first career goal on January 5, 2025, against the Savannah Ghost Pirates.

A native of Sterling Heights, Michigan, Datema brings both size and experience to the Gladiators’ blue line. At 6-foot-5, 220 pounds, he’s a physical presence who knows how to use his frame effectively. Before going pro, Datema played five seasons of NCAA Division I hockey — three at Michigan Tech and two at Canisius College — putting up three goals and 20 assists over 100 collegiate games.

Datema first made a name for himself at the junior level with the Amarillo Bulls of the NAHL, where he dominated as a defenseman during the 2018-19 season. That year, he led all NAHL defensemen in scoring with 21 goals and 39 assists for 60 points in just 58 games.

Gladiators Director of Hockey Operations and Head Coach Matt Ginn praised Datema’s style of play and locker room presence.

“Brenden plays a very physical style and uses his big frame effectively. He is hard to play against, and we expect that to continue,” Ginn said. “He is a well-liked teammate that will do whatever is needed to win. We’re excited to bring Brenden back for another season.”

The Gladiators are rolling out their 2025-26 roster with live announcements on their official YouTube channel every Tuesday and Thursday at 6:00 PM EST. Fans are encouraged to subscribe for exclusive content and the latest updates as the team gears up for the new season.