The Genting Casino Coventry Blaze are pleased to announce the signing of American forward Matthew Gleason ahead of the 2025/26 Elite League season.
Gleason, 23, will turn professional with the Blaze after graduating from the University of St. Thomas (NCAA), where he played four seasons for the Minnesota-based programme. During his time with the team, the St. Paul native tallied 45 points (16 goals, 29 assists) in 72 appearances, and wore the ‘A’ as an associate captain in his senior year.
In the most recent campaign, Gleason ranked fourth on the team in both goals and overall points, boasted a +10 plus/minus rating, and recorded a 50% face-off win percentage, winning 189 of 378 draws. His efforts helped lead St. Thomas to a competitive season in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA), and his academic dedication earned him All-Academic and Scholar-Athlete honours during his time with the programme.
Before joining St. Thomas, Gleason played three seasons at Colorado College (NCAA), contributing 27 points (11 goals, 16 assists) in 70 games. His off-ice excellence was equally impressive, receiving Distinguished Scholar-Athlete recognition and being named to the NCHC All-Academic Team in consecutive years.
Gleason’s hockey roots trace back to Cretin-Derham Hall High School, where he left a lasting legacy. He holds the school’s all-time records for goals and points, and in 2020 alone was named All-Metro Player of the Year, Youth Hockey Hub Player of the Year, a Mr. Hockey Minnesota candidate, Suburban East Conference Forward of the Year, and was a four-time All-Conference selection (2017–2020).
He was also a member of Cretin-Derham Hall’s Presidents List for academic excellence throughout his high school years.
Head Coach Kevin Moore said, “Matt is a 200-foot player with great detail to his game. He is relentless in hunting pucks and getting to the hard areas. He will be a great fit in our locker room and in our style of play, and I’m excited to have him on board this season.”
Gleason will wear #63 for Blaze in the 25/26 Elite League season.
