Gladiators to Retire Derek Nesbitt’s #17

The Atlanta Gladiators and Team President Jerry James announced on Thursday that the organization will retire Derek Nesbitt’s #17. The Gladiators will honor Nesbitt with a special pre-game ceremony, and his #17 banner will be raised to join the likes of former Gladiators Andy Brandt and Cam Brown as a part of the festivities. The ceremony will take place on Sunday, Nov. 13 prior to the 3:00 PM puck drop against the Savannah Ghost Pirates. No future Gladiators players will be permitted to wear #17.

The former Gladiators captain announced his retirement on Monday in a heartfelt video posted on the team’s social media channels (YouTube link). Nesbitt capped off a 16-year professional career with 51 points (18G-33A) during the 2021-22 season. He leads the Gladiators franchise in all-time goals (166), assists (258), points (424), and games played (512).