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FOUR TEAMS. TWO COASTS. ONE STATE. ONE CHAMPION.

FORT MYERS, FL — The battle for Florida hockey bragging rights is heating up! On October 17–18, 2026, the Fort Myers Skatium will host the annual Florida Cup, bringing together four of Florida’s junior hockey organizations for an action-packed weekend of fierce competition, regional rivalries, and championship hockey.

This year’s tournament brings even more excitement as the Florida Cup features both Premier and NCDC divisions, marking the first time the participating NCDC teams will face off in Florida Cup competition during their inaugural season.

East Coast vs. West Coast: The Battle Begins!

Four organizations representing both coasts of the Sunshine State will compete for the coveted Florida Cup titles.

West Coast Contenders:

• Florida Eels — Fort Myers
• Florida Jr. Blades — Estero

East Coast Contenders:

• Coral Springs Jr. Cats — Coral Springs
• Typhoon Hockey Club — Lake Worth

The battle for Florida hockey bragging rights begins with an East Coast vs. East Coast and West Coast vs. West Coast showdown!

Saturday’s opening-round matchups will feature the Florida Eels and Jr. Blades battling for West Coast supremacy, while the Coral Springs Jr. Cats and Typhoon Hockey Club (Lake Worth)  go head-to-head on the East Coast.

The results of Saturday’s games will determine Sunday’s matchups, setting the stage for the ultimate East Coast vs. West Coast showdown! With championship titles on the line in both the Premier and NCDC divisions, the winners will battle to determine who claims the 2026 Florida Cup!

Two coasts. Four teams. One state. Who will reign supreme?

How the Florida Cup Works

Opening-round matchups are determined by the participating teams’ final rankings from the previous season.

The highest-ranked team faces the lowest-ranked participating team, while the second- and third-ranked teams compete in the other opening-round matchup.

Saturday’s results will determine Sunday’s championship and consolation games in each division.

• Championship Games: Saturday’s winners advance to face one another for the Florida Cup title.
• Consolation Games: Saturday’s remaining teams compete for third place.

Each team will compete twice throughout the weekend, with separate Premier and NCDC champions crowned on Sunday.

A Historic First for Florida’s NCDC Programs

The 2026 Florida Cup marks an exciting milestone as the participating NCDC programs compete in the tournament for the first time.

With these programs entering their inaugural NCDC season, the tournament introduces a new chapter of Florida junior hockey rivalries, giving players an opportunity to showcase their talent and compete for early-season championship honors.

Florida Cup 2026: Official Game Schedule

Saturday, October 17 — Opening Round

Time	Division	Matchup
9:00 AM	Premier	Florida Eels vs. Florida Jr. Blades
12:00 PM	Premier	Coral Springs  Jr. Cats vs. Typhoon Hockey Club
3:00 PM	NCDC	Coral Springs  Jr. Cats vs.  Typhoon Hockey Club
6:00 PM	NCDC	Florida Eels vs. Florida Jr. Blades

Sunday, October 18 — Championship & Consolation Games

Time	Division	Matchup
9:00 AM	Premier	TBD
12:00 PM	Premier	TBD
3:00 PM	NCDC	TBD
6:00 PM	NCDC	TBD

Sunday’s matchups will be determined by Saturday’s results.

Experience the Florida Cup Live!

Hockey fans from across the state are invited to experience the speed, intensity, and excitement of Florida Cup competition.

Event Details

Dates: October 17–18, 2026

Location: Fort Myers Skatium

Address: 2250 Broadway, Fort Myers, Florida

Adult Gate Admission: $5

Children 10 & Under: FREE!

Fans unable to attend in person can catch the action live on Black Bear TV Streaming.

With regional pride, championship titles, and Florida hockey bragging rights on the line, the stage is set for an unforgettable weekend.

FOUR TEAMS. TWO COASTS. ONE STATE. ONE CHAMPION.

Who will claim the 2026 Florida Cup? 

 

With a storied legacy of over 400 college commitments, the Eels look to build on early-season chemistry and dominant top-line production.

FORT MYERS, Fla. — Fresh off a high-powered opening weekend highlighted by a convincing 6–2 cross-town rivalry victory over the Jr. Blades, the Florida Eels NCDC and Premier teams are locking in for a two-game road series against the Florida Surge in Jacksonville.

As one of North America’s premier player-development powerhouses in junior hockey, the Eels enter the series focused on establishing their signature fast-paced, high-accountability identity while integrating over 40 talented new roster additions across both squads.

A Legacy of Advancement & Championship Culture

For over two decades, the Florida Eels organization has operated under a relentless commitment to player development out of the Fort Myers Skatium. That standard has built one of the nation’s most respected pipelines for higher-level hockey:

• 400+ College Advancements: The Eels program has propelled over 400 players into NCAA Division I, Division III, and top ACHA collegiate programs.

• Next-Level Pipeline: With dozens of alumni competing in NCAA college hockey in recent seasons alone, the program’s combination of intense on-ice instruction, off-ice conditioning, and character development remains gold-standard.

Early High Voltage: The Charon-Lath-Nilsson Connection

The Eels’ NCDC squad showcased its explosive offensive potential during opening weekend, driven by a veteran top line that set the ice on fire. In Sunday’s statement win against the Jr. Blades, the trio combined for 4 goals and 6 assists (10 total points):

• Xavier Charon (F): Led the charge with 2 goals and 1 assist, showcasing two-way dominance and clinical finishing.
• Arvid Lath (F): Served as the primary playmaker, dissecting defenses to post 1 goal and 3 assists.
• Arvid Nilsson (F): Contributed 1 goal and 2 assists while delivering veteran leadership on and off the bench.
• Spencer Hambling (D): Anchored the blue line with a goal and an assist, providing calm defensive composure under pressure.

“With so many new faces on the roster, seeing our leadership group step up and set the tone right away is vital,” said the Eels coaching staff. “Time on the road early in the season is invaluable. It’s where chemistry is forged, trust is built, and team culture takes root.”

Matchup Breakdown: Florida Eels vs. Florida Surge

Both squads head into Jacksonville with clear objectives against a Surge organization eager to defend home ice:

Team	Eels Status & Momentum	Surge Status
NCDC	Coming off a dominant 6–2 victory against the Jr. Blades; top line firing on all cylinders.	Sitting at 1–1 following a 5–3 win over the Jr. Blades and a 4–1 loss to the Jr. Cats.
Premier	Strong opening efforts showing chemistry growth; eager to turn early lessons into full 60-minute wins.	Looking to bounce back on home ice after dropping both opening weekend matchups.

The focus for both Eels teams in Jacksonville centers on sustained 60-minute effort, sharp three-zone execution, and bringing home another sweep for Fort Myers.

The Florida Eels and Florida Jr. Blades split their exhibition series, with the Eels bouncing back to capture a 4–2 victory on Monday, September 21, after falling just short in a 5–4 battle on Friday, September 18.

Monday’s matchup saw the Eels come out ready to make a statement. Jimmy Rafferty opened the scoring, putting the Eels on the board with the first goal of the game and setting the tone for the day.

Eels veteran Paxton Campbell took center stage, finding the back of the net twice in the victory. Campbell’s offensive performance was fueled by strong support from Cooper Martineau and Benjamin Wong, who picked up assists.

Eels newcomer Curtiss Gordon also made his mark, burying a goal with assists from Logan Cameron and veteran defenseman Derrick Pedersen, helping secure the 4–2 win and close out the exhibition series on a high note.

Regular Season Starts Now

With exhibition play in the books, the Eels are officially turning their attention toward a busy opening weekend on the road.

On Friday, September 24, the Eels head to the Panther’s Den to open regular-season action against the Jr. Cats. The Eels Premier squad takes the ice at 11:30 a.m., followed by the Eels NCDC team at 2:30 p.m.

The action continues Sunday, September 27, when the Eels return to Southwest Florida and head south to Hertz Arena in Estero for another showdown with the Florida Jr. Blades. Premier gets things started at 9:00 a.m., before NCDC takes center stage at 12:00 p.m.

The exhibition games are over. Now, the games count.

Come out and support the Eels live or follow the action on Black Bear TV as the Florida Eels officially drop the puck on the 2026–27 season!

LET’S GO EELS! 🐍🏒

 

Some stories come full circle.

For the Florida Eels Junior Hockey Club, few alumni embody the values of the organization more than Joseph “Joey” Giambalvo. A proud New York native, Joey was one of the pioneering members of the Florida Eels program, helping build the club’s foundation from 2008 through 2013. Today, he has traded in his hockey stick for entrepreneurship, leading one of Florida’s fastest-growing family businesses—Stuff A Bagel—alongside the Giambalvo family.

What began as a passion for hockey has evolved into a business empire. With Stuff A Bagel locations stretching from the Orlando-Disney area through Cape Coral and Fort Myers, the Giambalvo family has built a brand synonymous with quality, hard work, and community—values that were first forged on the ice.

A Legacy Built in Black and Green

During his Eels career, Joey was the definition of leadership. Serving as team captain, he suited up for more than 130 games, proudly wearing the Eels crest while recording an impressive 136 career points. A natural goal scorer with an uncanny ability to find the back of the net, Joey’s relentless work ethic and commitment to excellence made him one of the organization’s most respected players.

But behind every great player stood an unforgettable family.

Anyone who attended Eels games during Joey’s career remembers the unmistakable Giambalvo cheering section. Grandparents, parents Joe and Lisa, and sisters Sabrina, Francesca, and Marissa transformed every arena into a sea of black and green. From dyed hair and painted faces to thunderous cheers after every goal, the Giambalvo’s weren’t simply spectators—they were the heartbeat of the Eels family.

Their passion became legendary.

The Giambalvo’s represented everything the Florida Eels strive to instill in every player: integrity, family, commitment, and hard work.

Those same principles have become the cornerstone of their business success. Whether serving customers at Stuff A Bagel or supporting the communities they call home, the Giambalvo family continues to demonstrate the same dedication that made Joey such a respected captain years ago.

Now, that commitment has come home.

Giving Back to the Next Generation

The Florida Eels are proud to announce that Joey Giambalvo and his younger sister, Marissa Giambalvo, owner and operator of the Stuff A Bagel Orlando-Disney location, have returned—not as players or fans, but as proud alumni and sponsors.

The Giambalvo’s are the official sponsors of the Florida Eels and the NCDC jerseys, helping outfit the next generation of Eels who will proudly wear the same crest Joey wore with distinction for five unforgettable seasons.

Their sponsorship is more than a logo on a jersey.

It is a reminder that the Florida Eels are a family for life. Players may graduate, careers may change, and businesses may flourish, but the bond created inside the Eels organization never fades.

The Florida Eels are honored to welcome Joey and Marissa Giambalvo back into the organization in this exciting new role.

Their journey—from passionate hockey family, to championship-caliber player, to successful business owners, and now generous supporters of the program—serves as an inspiration to every young athlete who dreams of wearing the Eels crest.

Thank you, Joey, Marissa, and the entire Giambalvo family, for continuing to invest in the future of Florida Eels hockey.

Once an Eel. Always an Eel.

 

“Where Opportunity Meets Exposure. The path to the next level starts here.”

The Florida Eels are once again heading to the Pro -Am Senior Chowder Cup, one of North America’s premier summer hockey showcases. This year, the excitement reaches another level as the tournament is combined with the Florida Eels NCDC Main Camp, creating one of the most valuable exposure opportunities available to aspiring junior hockey players.

The Eels will proudly ice two teams in this year’s Senior Chowder Cup, featuring talented prospects from across North America who will make their Florida Eels debut while competing against some of the best players in junior hockey.

Throughout the event, the Florida Eels NCDC and Premier coaching staffs, along with the organization’s head administrative team, will be evaluating talent and identifying players who have what it takes to become part of the Eels’ winning tradition.

The Pro-Am Senior Chowder Cup is recognized throughout the hockey world as a destination for elite talent and unparalleled exposure. Scouts and decision-makers from the NHL, NCAA, ACHA, Major Junior, Junior A, and other junior organizations will be in attendance, providing players with the opportunity to showcase their abilities in front of those who can help shape their future.

For the Florida Eels, this event is more than just a tournament—it’s an opportunity to identify the next generation of players who are ready to compete, develop, and advance. With a proven history of helping hundreds of athletes reach collegiate and junior hockey, the Eels continue to provide one of the strongest development pathways in North America.

Whether your goal is to earn a roster spot with the Florida Eels, gain valuable exposure, or take the next step toward collegiate or professional hockey, there is no better stage than the Pro -Am Senior Chowder Cup and Florida Eels NCDC Main Camp.

Where opportunity meets exposure. Where dreams become reality. Where your future begins. We look forward to seeing all participants there!

Join the Florida Eels for the 2026 NCDC Main Camp, taking place July 15th–19th at the New England Sports Village in Attleboro, Massachusetts. This highly competitive camp gives players the opportunity to showcase their abilities in front of coaches and scouts at one of the premier summer evaluation events in junior hockey.

Players attending camp will receive a five-game guarantee, with the opportunity to play up to eight games as all participants in the Eels NCDC Main Camp will also compete in the prestigious Senior Chowder Cup. This extended exposure provides athletes with valuable opportunities to compete against top-level talent while gaining visibility from junior, NCAA and ACHA Colleges, and professional scouts.

Joining the Florida Eels Main Camp is more than just a tryout — it’s an opportunity to challenge yourself at a high level, gain meaningful exposure, and take the next step in your hockey journey.

To secure your spot click the registration link below:

https://floridajreels.sportngin.com/register/form/992480983

Florida Eels Identification Camp is quickly approaching! Please see the Identification Camp Schedule below. Coaches and staff look forward to seeing all players on Saturday!

The Florida Eels Premier team officially closed out its 2025-2026 season on Monday, March 16^th, following an incredible showing and battle in the USPHL Florida Divisional Playoffs. While the playoff outcome may not have been exactly what the team envisioned, the season was marked by perseverance, growth, and a remarkable commitment from a group of young athletes untied by a common goal.

Throughout the regular season, the Florida Eels Premier fought fiercely in the highly competitive Florida Division, battling back and forth for the coveted first-place seed before ultimately finishing just shy and securing second-place position heading into the playoffs. Their consistent effort and resilience were a testament to the dedication and character of the team.

The journey began back in mid-August when players from around the globe arrived in Fort Myers to begin the Florida Eels’ demanding preseason training camp. Over the course of several weeks, the athletes endured intensive immersive training environment designed to prepare them from the rigors of junior hockey. Players immersed themselves in learning systems, mastering plays, and embracing the defining culture that has long been synonymous with the Florida Eels organization.

Training five days a week for a minimum of five hours per day, the team pushed through mental and physical challenges together. It was during these long days on and off the ice that a powerful bond formed among the players-a true brotherhood that will last far beyond the final buzzer of a season, and last a lifetime.

Throughout the year, the Eels face adversity in many forms, including injuries, tough losses, and natural challenges that come with a long competitive season. Yet through it all, their determination and commitment to one another never wavered. Each player continued to show resilience, character and pride in representing the Eels crest.

The organization would be remiss not to recognize and thank the parents, families, billets and fans who supported the team throughout the season. For many players, pursuing junior hockey means leaving home and traveling a great distance to chase their dreams. The sacrifices made by families-and the trust placed in the Florida Eels organization-do not go unnoticed, or taken for granted.

While the playoff run may not have ended in the championship the team had hoped for, the Florida Eels administration, General Manager, and President remain immensely proud of the accomplishments of this group of young men. Their development extended far beyond the ice, as they matured not only as hockey players but as individuals.

To the players who are aging out and moving on, the organization wishes them continued success. The same dedication, discipline, and character they displayed this season will undoubtedly guide them toward greatness in whatever paths they pursue next.

As one season concludes, preparations for the next will soon begin. But for now, the Florida Eels organization takes a moment to reflect with pride on the journey shared by all of our players, coaches, and staff whose tireless efforts defined this season.

Success cannot always be measured in wins and losses. It is found in the lives shaped, the memories created, and the lifelong bonds forged along the way.

Thank you, gentlemen, for representing the Eels with heart, with pride and with determination. Until next season.

Written: Nikki Scarpaci Fliss

The Florida Eels Elite officially wrapped up their 2025-2026 campaign on Saturday, March 15^th, 2026, following two fiercely contested battles in the USPHL Florida Divisional Playoffs. While the season came to an end on the scoreboard, the impact of this team, their growth, and the brotherhood formed throughout the year will echo far beyond the final buzzer.

The journey began back in mid-August when the Eels Elite reported to the Fort Myers Skatium for a demanding two and half week training camp. From day one, the standard was clear: commitment, discipline, and relentless worth ethic. Players trained five hours a day, five days a week, pushing themselves physically and mentally while learning the systems, structure, and championship culture that define the Florida Eels organization.

This year’s Elite roster was true international brotherhood. Players traveled from across the globe to chase the same dream, representing places such as Bulgaria, Montreal, Edmonton, Calgary, Alaska, and Australia as well as across the  of the mainland of the United States. Despite their different backgrounds, cultures, and hometowns, they quickly became one unified family. Long practices, tough games, road trips and the grind of a full junior hockey season forged bonds that will last a lifetime.

Throughout the season, the Eels Elite competed in three highly competitive showcases while battling through a demanding regular-season schedule. Every shift, every game and every mile traveled strengthened the resolve of a team determined to represent the Eels crest with pride.

The organization would be remiss not to extend its deepest gratitude to the incredible families, friends, billets, and fans who supported the Eels Elite all season long. Sending your athlete away from home to pursue their dream takes tremendous trust. To the families who entrusted us with your players-thank you. Your belief in this program and these young men is what makes junior hockey so special.

Within the Florida Eels organization, the mission has always been about far more than wins and losses. While player development on the ice remains a priority, developing character, leadership, and lifelong relationships is the true foundation of the program. This season’s roster reflected that perfectly, featuring a blend of seasoned veterans with five years of junior experience alongside rookies stepping into the junior ranks for the first time.

The character of this team never wavered. Through adversity, travel, injuries, and the intensity of the season, the players continued to support one another and represent the organization with class.

To the players aging out of the program this year, your time with the Eels has left a lasting mark on the organization. We are incredibly proud of you and excited to watch the next chapters of your lives and careers unfold. Once and Eel, always and Eel.

The playoff result may not have been the ending the team envisioned, but let the message ring loud and clear: There are no losers in the Florida Eels organization.

What this team accomplished cannot be measured by a scoreboard. The sacrifices made, the memories created, the brotherhood formed, and the lessons learned will remain embedded in the DNA of the program forever.

The Florida Eels are extremely grateful and thankful for the Eels Elite players, staff and supporters for an unforgettable season.

Gentlemen-it has truly been an honor to watch you this season.

Written by: Nikki Scarpaci Fliss