In a thrilling finale to their ECHL season, the Jacksonville Icemen secured a memorable 7-5 victory against the Orlando Solar Bears. This exciting match concluded their campaign on a high note, characterized by exceptional individual performances and an enthusiastic home crowd. The game showcased pivotal moments of offensive prowess and defensive resilience, leaving fans with a lasting impression of the team's spirit.
Icemen Triumph in Season Closer Against Solar Bears
On April 19, 2026, within the vibrant atmosphere of VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, the Jacksonville Icemen delivered a spectacular performance to close out their ECHL season. The decisive moment arrived at 18:48 in the final period when T.J. Friedmann skillfully scored the go-ahead goal, tipping the scales in favor of the Icemen. Shortly after, Craig Martin electrifyingly completed a hat trick, sealing the 7-5 victory over the Orlando Solar Bears and igniting a wave of celebration among the home supporters. This remarkable game saw Martin, Friedmann, and Jed Pietila emerge as the top three stars, with Martin's three goals, Friedmann's crucial goal, and Pietila's goal and assist contributing significantly to the win. The match was notably disciplined, featuring only one minor penalty but three double minors between the teams. Martin's hat trick marked a significant achievement, being the first for the Icemen since Olivier Nadeau's performance in March 2025. Goalie Cameron Rowe made 31 saves, and David Jankowski contributed three assists. Adam McMaster and Colby Ambrosio also found the net for Jacksonville, bringing their final record to 29-32-8-3 and securing fifth place in the ECHL South Division. Despite the Solar Bears (29-38-4-1) staging a comeback from a 5-2 deficit with goals from Ethan Szmagaj, Jarid Lukosevicius, and Aaron Luchuk, the Icemen held firm. The game also highlighted the Icemen's strong community support, with 10,176 fans in attendance, once again leading the ECHL in attendance by a substantial margin.
The Icemen's season-ending victory was more than just a game; it was a testament to the team's resilience and the unwavering support of its fanbase. Witnessing a hat trick and a come-from-behind win provided an exhilarating conclusion to their campaign. This match underscored the unpredictable and thrilling nature of hockey, where moments of individual brilliance can converge to create a truly unforgettable experience. As the team now looks ahead to the 2026-27 season, this celebratory win sets an optimistic tone, reminding us of the power of sports to unite and inspire.