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The Florida Eels Elite came into the USPHL Florida Divisional Playoffs with one mission: to win. And they did just that—emphatically. In their first-round matchup against their cross-town rivals, the Florida Jr. Blades, the Eels put on an absolute masterclass, securing a commanding 3-0 victory to set the tone for their postseason run.

From the first puck drop, the Eels played with intensity, precision, and an unshakable will to win. Every shift was a statement, every play a testament to their dedication. Bulgarian native, Filip Vitanov starred between the pipes, in round one of the USPHL Florida Divisional Playoffs, for the Florida Eels, stopping every puck thrown in his direction. It was four-year veteran and Captain, Jackson Carnes assisted by Carmen D’Ambrosio and Dominic Doyle  that scored the Eels first point of the game at 4:46 in the first period. Eels two-year veteran Nikita Shchevyev returning after a midseason injury, assisted by Dominick Dantona, and Konnor Bertrand grabbed the Eels second goal of the game, at 17:27 in the second. At 3:03 in the third period, Fort Myers native and rookie Paxton Campbell, after returning from a late season injury secured the Eels third and final goal of the game. The Eels made it clear through their offense push, their defense lock down against the Blades’ attack, and goaltending turning away every scoring chance with ice-cold composure, that the Eels were determined to pull off this major win.

But this wasn’t just a win—it was a statement.  This was their best game of the season, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. With this dominant shutout, the Florida Eels Elite have sent a loud and clear message to the league: They are here to win it all. If this is just the beginning, the rest of the Florida Division better watch out—because the Eels are just getting started.

Florida Eels Elite will head into Round 2 of the USPHL Florida Divisional Playoffs tomorrow March 8^th, 2025 as they take on the Tampa Bay Juniors at 12:45 pm at the Advent Health Center Ice Arena in Wesley Chapel, Florida. Join the Eels live as they take on the Tampa Bay Juniors or tune in live on FloHockey. Let’s go Eels!

Florida Eels Premier and Elite will be heading to Tampa, Florida to face off against teams of the Florida Division for their spot to head to Nationals. The USPHL Florida Divisional Playoffs begin on Friday, March 7^th, 2025. This years’ playoffs are double elimination. This means that we know who we are playing in the first round; however, additional competitors will be determined as each round finishes.

Round One for the Eels:

Florida Eels Premier will face the Bold City Battalion in round one, Friday March 7^th 2025 at 7:30pm. If the Eels win against Bold City, they will play their next opponent on Saturday March 8^th, 2025 at 7:15pm. On the other hand, should the Eels Premier lose in the first round their next game will be Saturday, March 8^th at 4:15pm. See map outline below:

Florida Eels Elite will face off against our cross-town rivals the Florida Jr. Blades, Friday, March 7^th at 1:00pm. If the Eels win in round one, they will move on to play their next opponent on Saturday, March 8^th at 12:45pm. On the other hand, should the Eels Premier lose in the first round their next game will be Saturday, March 8^that 9:45 am. See map outline below:

It is important to note, that due to this playoff series being DOUBLE ELIMINATION, it could extend till Tuesday, March 11^th. We are excited to see the Eels hit the ice on Friday, and know that they have been working very hard. Join us live to cheer on the Florida Eels Premier and Elite in Wesley Chapel, or watch live on FloHockey. Period updates, will be posted via Instagram story, and updates about our bracket placement will be posted after each round! Let’s Go Eels!

The legacy of the Florida Eels lives on at Curry College, where Gage Dill and Taurin Haddon-Harris continue to dominate, just as they did in their USPHL days. The two Eels alumni have seamlessly transitioned their electrifying play to the collegiate level, propelling Curry College to a #1 national ranking and a legitimate championship pursuit.

It comes as no surprise to Florida Eels General Manager, Frank Scarpaci, that Curry College is thriving with these two on the roster. “These boys led the Eels for several seasons in scoring and leadership, pushing us to the top of USPHL rankings and deep national runs. We couldn’t be prouder of their continued success,” he said.

(Photographed Gage Dill and Taurin Haddon-Harris playing for the Florida Eels Premier 2021-2022 team)

When Dill and Haddon-Harris took the ice for the Eels, they were nothing short of game-changers. Their dominance on the ice was undeniable. Their relentless forechecking left opponents gasping for space, their suffocating backchecking disrupted even the best offensive threats, and their scoring ability—finding the back of the net with mere inches to work with—was nothing short of elite.

But their impact goes beyond raw skill. These two were charismatic leaders, setting the tone with their high-energy, high-tempo style of play. Now, at Curry College, they’re continuing to raise the bar, proving that their championship mentality didn’t stop in juniors—it’s only getting stronger.

With Dill and Haddon-Harris leading the charge, Curry College isn’t just chasing a title—they’re staking their claim as the best in the nation.

Stay tuned, because these former Eels aren’t done making history.

(Pictured Curry College 2024-2025 squad, including Gage Dill and Taurin Haddon-Harris).

The Florida Eels continue to leave their mark on the collegiate hockey world, as their alumni are thriving at some of the top programs in the nation. Leading the charge are Taurin Haddon-Harris and Gage Dill, who are suiting up for Curry College for their third season, currently ranked #2 nationally. With their eyes set on a deep national tournament run, these two standouts are proving why the Eels pipeline is one of the strongest in junior hockey.

Beyond Curry College, the Eels presence permeates throughout the collegiate market. Damon Kiyawasew, Mark Phillips, and Jared Salminen are making waves at Rivier University, showcasing the skill and work ethic that define the Eels program. Former Rivier Viking, Liam Hennessy,is showcasing his two way game abilities at Bethel University. Meanwhile, Devin Shepherd is dominating the ice for Framingham State University, consistently proving himself as an offensive force to be reckoned with. Eels’ former Premier Captain, Easton Moore, continues to light the lamp with offensive prowlness, as he gains another 13 points this season at the MCLA. Eels players Noah Trathen and Braden Goddard found their home at U-Mass Dartmouth these season. While, firepower Colin Patterson, formally of UMass Dartmouth, now at Utica University has a total of 19 points in his 18 games played this season. Defensive threats, Eric Hambling and Kyle Ziemba-who has also racked 17 points this season-continue to dominate the D Zone for Indiana University of PA. Another former Premier Captain, Maverick Crupi left his offensive stamp as secured 40 points, in 30 games during his college rookie season at the University of Pittsburgh.

Between the pipes, Duncan Rolleman is standing tall for Wilkes University, continuing the Eels’ tradition of producing elite goaltenders. His ability to shut down opponents and backstop his team to victory makes him a critical asset as Wilkes looks to make a push for postseason success.

From coast to coast, Florida Eels alumni are thriving, competing, and excelling at the collegiate level, reinforcing the program’s reputation as one of the best developmental teams in junior hockey. With these players continuing to shine, expect to see the Eels name etched into the national spotlight for years to come.

Florida Eels want to spotlight Premier 05 Forward, Sixten Gidlund. Gidlund, a Sweden native, joined the Eels this season, staring in 31 games, has had 8 goals, and 10 assists, totaling 18 points. Gidlund most recent accolades include, a two goal contribution, in the Florida Eels Premier’s 7-1 win over the Florida Jr. Blades Saturday evening. Way to go Sixten!

Florida Eels want to spotlight Elite 07’ Forward Brantlee Hoffman. Hoffman joins the Eels this season, after playing for the local Florida Warriors. He has starred in 40 games, had 10 goals, 10 assists, totaling 20 points this season so far. Hoffman’s most recent accolades include two goals and one assist in Sunday’s match up against the Tampa Bay Juniors. Way to go Brantlee!

The Florida Eels Premier proudly announces that 2004 Owen Blyth has committed to Hiram University for the 2025-2026 season!

Blyth has been a relentless force on the ice, bringing unmatched dedication and defensive dominance to every shift. His commitment to shutting down opponents and leading by example has been a cornerstone of the Eels’ success.

We have no doubt that Owen will continue to make waves at the next level and proudly represent the Eels as he embarks on this exciting new chapter.

Congrats, Owen! Hiram is getting a warrior!

The Florida Eels would like to take a moment to thank all of our players, parents, grandparents, billet parents, staff and volunteers for another outstanding season. Without your unwavering support, dedication and generosity the Eels would not be able to do what we do for our players.

The coaches and staff are extremely proud of our tradition and legacy. We have steadfastly been the flagship of junior hockey in our division, league and in North America. We continue to have an unprecedented number of players who have advanced to college from the Eels, over 365 to be exact, 29 from last season alone. No other organization has sent 29 players to college in one season.

Each year, we enjoy the excitement, the joys, the moments, but day’s like today are rather bittersweet. Today wrapped up the last home game of the regular season for the Florida Eels Premier, as the last home game for Florida Eels Elite approaches us next weekend. It is these moments where we remember all the little things that have made this season, and years so great. As we see the guys skate to the blue line one final time on home ice, we remember all our home openers, all our home games, and the seasons, whether it be one season or four seasons played for the Eels. As the boys line up on the blue line,  we want to express how dearly they will all be missed. It is unimaginable for us to think, that after four seasons, that players such as Anthony Zebley or the Zebley family will not be playing for the Eels or in attendance at Eels games next season. We know that each player will take a piece of the game with them, a piece of the team, and culture wherever they end up.

We want to take a moment to recognize our 2004 players, who are advancing forward in their hockey careers and aging out of their Junior Hockey journey:

Premier

9 Matthew Cunningham

17 Anthony Zebley

20 Kenny Granacker

27 Robin Kuusik

2 Reid Wilson

3 Owen Peters

6 Brendan Dohan

7 Owen Blyth

25 Mitch Wilson

43 Ian Dracoulis

35 Noah van Herik

Elite

9 Zayn Haddon-Harris

26 Filip Nyberg

Although our work is far from done, with playoff’s just a few weeks away, we wish you all the best and know you will continue to make us proud as you make your selections for your college journey ahead.

The Florida Eels Junior Hockey program has long been synonymous with excellence, particularly when it comes to goaltending. Year after year, the Eels continue to produce top-tier netminders who not only dominate the USPHL but also transition seamlessly into the collegiate, professional, and even national team circuits. The program’s ability to develop elite goaltenders has cemented its reputation as a true goaltending powerhouse.

A glance at the Eels’ recent history is enough to prove their success in this crucial position. The Florida Eels Premier Team has been home to a string of remarkable goaltenders, each leaving a legacy of excellence between the pipes. Tresor Wotton (2023-24) is the latest standout, following in the footsteps of Duncan Rolleman (2021-24), Adam Rouleau (2022-23), Alex Caron (2019-22), Jakub Kostenly (2019-21), Viktor Pulsson (2018-19), and Danick Francour (2018-19). These names have become synonymous with dominance in the USPHL, and many have gone on to shine at the next level.

The success story doesn’t end at the Premier level. The Eels’ Elite Division has also seen its fair share of exceptional goaltenders, including Karlis Mezargs (2020), Jacob Mork (2019-21), and Matthew Schoer (2020-21). Each of these talented netminders has benefitted from the Eels’ unparalleled coaching and training programs, setting them up for success beyond junior hockey.

With a proven track record of developing goaltenders who make an impact at higher levels, the Florida Eels remain a prime destination for collegiate programs seeking top-tier talent. The next wave of Eels goaltending excellence is already on the rise, with Noah Van Herik and Russ Decoste poised to make their mark next season. Don’t miss your chance to add these top goaltenders to your collegiate program!

Noah Van Herik: The Florida Eels’ Brick Wall Between the Pipes

The Florida Eels Premier squad has a game-changer in net, and his name is Noah Van Herik. A goaltender with elite instincts, lightning-fast reflexes, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Van Herik is proving to be a dominant force in the crease.

With every game, Van Herik showcases his ability to steal wins, making highlight-reel saves and keeping opponents frustrated. His composure under pressure, combined with his agility and sharp positioning, make him a nightmare for shooters. Whether it’s a crucial penalty kill, a breakaway, or a last-second scramble in front of the net, he thrives in the most intense moments.

But it’s not just his talent that sets him apart—it’s his work ethic. Van Herik is relentless in his pursuit of improvement, fine-tuning his skills and bringing a championship mindset to the ice. His leadership and determination inspire confidence in his teammates, making the Florida Eels a formidable opponent in the USPHL Premier division.

As the season heats up, expect Van Herik to continue raising the bar, anchoring the Eels’ defense, and proving why he’s one of the top netminders in junior hockey. Keep your eyes on Noah Van Herik—because when he’s in net, the Eels are always in the game.

Russ DeCoste: The Backbone of the Florida Eels Premier Team

When the Florida Eels Premier team hits the ice, one name stands out between the pipes—Russ DeCoste. A relentless competitor, DeCoste brings elite athleticism, sharp reflexes, and an unbreakable mindset to the crease, making him a force to be reckoned with.

With a calm and composed presence, DeCoste consistently delivers clutch performances, shutting down opponents with lightning-fast glove saves and precision positioning. His ability to track the puck, control rebounds, and make highlight-reel stops has solidified him as a game-changer for the Eels.

This season, DeCoste has been a cornerstone of the team’s defensive unit, boasting impressive stats and a proven track record of keeping the Eels in every battle. His leadership and dedication both on and off the ice set the standard for excellence, inspiring his teammates and frustrating opposing forwards.

As the Eels continue their push for victory, Russ DeCoste stands ready to rise to the challenge, proving time and time again why he’s one of the top goaltenders in the league. Keep your eyes on the crease—because when DeCoste is in net, the Eels are always a threat.

For more information on the Florida Eels and their standout goaltenders, stay tuned for updates and be sure to keep an eye on the next generation of Eels talent with our upcoming games available on FloHockey!

The Florida Eels are proud to announce that Premier defenseman Reid Wilson has committed to the University of Central Oklahoma (WCHL) ACHA Division I, for the 2025-2026 season.

Wilson has been a dedicated member of the Florida Eels organization for the past three years, beginning his junior hockey journey with two seasons on the Florida Eels Elite team before earning his spot on the Florida Eels Premier roster this season. Over his tenure, he has played in 100+ games and recorded 30+ points, demonstrating his skill and commitment on the ice.

Originally from Canada, Wilson made the move to Florida with the unwavering support of his family to pursue his dream of playing junior hockey and achieving his goal of competing at the collegiate level. Known for his strong work ethic and determination, Wilson has been a key asset to the Eels and will undoubtedly continue to make an impact at UCO next season.

We are incredibly proud of Reid and excited to see all he will accomplish at the next level. Congratulations, Reid!