Gladiators Lose Key Piece of Coaching Staff
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DULUTH, Ga. (May 13, 2026) — The Atlanta Gladiators will enter the offseason with a significant change behind the bench.
The organization announced Wednesday that assistant coach Zach Vinnell is departing the team after one season to pursue a new professional opportunity.
Vinnell played a major role in helping guide Atlanta through one of its most successful seasons in nearly two decades.
Vinnell Helped Lead Playoff Return
Working alongside head coach Matt Ginn, Vinnell helped the Gladiators finish the 2025-26 season with a 44-23-4-1 record, good for third place in the South Division.
The season marked Atlanta’s first Kelly Cup Playoff appearance since 2022 and the organization’s best overall record since the 2007-08 campaign.
The turnaround helped reestablish momentum around the franchise both competitively and within the fan base.
Coach Reflects on One-Year Impact in Atlanta
In a statement released by the organization, Vinnell thanked the players, staff and fans for making the season memorable.
“I’ll forever cherish this year, not only because of the success we had on the ice, but more importantly because of the incredible group of players who showed up every day and gave their full commitment,” Vinnell said.
He also expressed confidence in the organization’s future, calling Atlanta an important part of both his life and coaching career.
Gladiators Face Important Offseason Ahead
Head coach Matt Ginn praised Vinnell’s contributions and credited him for helping elevate expectations within the organization.
Replacing Vinnell now becomes one of the Gladiators’ key offseason priorities as the team looks to build on the momentum created during its playoff return.
With expectations rising entering the 2026-27 season, maintaining continuity behind the bench will be critical.