COVENTRY Blaze have confirmed American forward Matthew Gleason will return to the club for the 2026/27 Elite League season.
The 24-year-old enjoyed a standout first professional season with Blaze, recording 54 points in 67 Elite League competition games.
He finished as Coventry’s joint top scorer with 26 goals alongside teammate Grant Mismash to win the Adam Calder forward of the season award.
Gleason said: “Happy to be back in Coventry. Looking back on my first year, I have so much gratitude and so many great memories from wearing the sky blue.
“I feel lucky to have the opportunity to do it again. The people and culture are what make Coventry so special, and I can’t wait to come back, build more friendships and memories, and bring Coventry the title they deserve.”
Blaze head coach, Kevin Moore added: “Matt had a great first professional season, and we’re excited to have him back for year two.
“He is extremely important in all phases of our game, and his relentless, competitive spirit embodies our style of play.”
Gleason turned professional with Blaze after graduating from the University of St. Thomas, where he spent four seasons with the Minnesota-based NCAA programme.
The St. Paul native totalled 45 points (16 goals, 29 assists) in 72 appearances and served as an associate captain during his senior year.
Before joining St. Thomas, Gleason spent three seasons at Colorado College, registering 27 points (11 goals, 16 assists) in 70 games.
