The Genting Casino Coventry Blaze are delighted to announce the signing of American forward Elijiah Barriga for the 2025/26 Elite League season.
The 29-year-old joins the Blaze from the Belfast Giants, where he recorded 50 points (16 goals, 34 assists) in 66 Elite League competition games last season, playing a key role in helping the Giants claim both the Elite League and Challenge Cup titles.
Barriga initially signed with Belfast ahead of the 2023/24 campaign and made four appearances in the Champions Hockey League before an injury requiring surgery ruled him out for the remainder of the season.
A native of West Covina, California, Barriga first arrived in the UK in 2022/23, enjoying a standout year with the Dundee Stars. There, he tallied 65 points (30 goals, 35 assists) in 62 Elite League competition games, quickly establishing himself as one of the league’s top offensive threats.
Barriga played his collegiate hockey at American International College (NCAA), where he registered 62 points (29 goals, 33 assists) in 107 games. During his time with AIC, he was a four-time NCAA (AHA) Regular Season Champion and a two-time NCAA (AHA) Playoff Champion. In 2020/21, he was named to both the NCAA (AHA) All-Tournament Team and the Second All-Conference Team.
At the junior level, Barriga was a standout for the Salmon Arm Silverbacks in the BCHL, where he posted 97 points (45 goals, 52 assists) in 115 games. Before committing to the NCAA, he also played a season in the ACHA with the University of Nevada–Las Vegas, scoring 34 points (21 goals, 13 assists) in just 27 appearances.
Head Coach Kevin Moore said, “Elijah is a creative and cerebral player who will help our offence five-on-five and on the powerplay. His competitive spirit and character will fit right in, and I am excited to have him with us this season.”
Barriga will wear #19 for Blaze in the 2025/26 Elite League season.
