Gladiators Build Momentum On and Off the Ice
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DULUTH, Ga. (May 7, 2026) — The Atlanta Gladiators’ return to the Kelly Cup Playoffs wasn’t the only sign of progress during the 2025-26 season.
The organization also saw significant growth at the box office, in fan engagement and throughout the local community, signaling renewed momentum for hockey in Gwinnett County.
After years of rebuilding both on the ice and within the fan base, the Gladiators took a major step forward this season—and the numbers back it up.
Attendance Numbers Reflect Growing Energy Around Team
The Gladiators welcomed 171,354 fans to Gas South Arena during the 2025-26 campaign, averaging 4,759 fans across 36 home games.
That marked an increase of 556 fans per game compared to the 2024-25 season, representing a 13% year-over-year attendance jump.
The rise reflects not only the team’s improved performance, but also growing excitement surrounding the game-day experience in Duluth.
Season Ticket Growth Signals Long-Term Buy-In
Atlanta also experienced a major increase in season ticket support.
The organization added 871 new season ticket holders, contributing to a 15% increase in overall ticket membership and a 26% rise in year-over-year ticket revenue.
Group outings also became a major part of the season’s success, with more than 44,000 group tickets sold throughout the year.
The growth suggests the franchise is beginning to reestablish itself as a consistent entertainment destination in the Atlanta-area sports market.
Star Wars Night Headlines Memorable Home Slate
One of the biggest moments of the season came during the team’s popular Star Wars Night promotion.
A crowd of 8,267 fans packed Gas South Arena to watch the Gladiators defeat the Greensboro Gargoyles 3-0 in the team’s highest-attended game of the year.
In total, Atlanta hosted 10 home games with attendance exceeding 6,000 fans—a strong indicator of increasing engagement throughout the season.
Playoff Return Adds to Organizational Momentum
Beyond attendance milestones, the season marked an important competitive step for the organization.
The Gladiators returned to the Kelly Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2022, giving fans meaningful postseason hockey and creating optimism heading into next season.
For a franchise looking to rebuild momentum both competitively and commercially, the 2025-26 season may prove to be a turning point.
Looking Ahead to 2026-27
With attendance rising, playoff hockey returning and fan investment growing, the Gladiators enter the offseason with noticeable momentum.
The organization thanked fans for their continued support and emphasized its excitement for welcoming both returning and new supporters back to Gas South Arena for the 2026-27 season.
