*Featured Photo by Kacey O'Brien
The captivating stadium lights shining down below, the chilly, yet energetic atmosphere surrounding you, and the thunderous roars of applause and cheers coming from thousands on their feet. This can only mean one thing – it’s almost time for another season of Adirondack Thunder Hockey.
For those new to the area, or perhaps simply have never been to a game, there’s no experience in the Lake George Area quite like the sights and sounds of this local hockey team product. Regardless of whether you’re a hockey fanatic or not, it’s easy to become a part of the excitement, thanks to the fast-paced action of the players, as well as the electrifying vibe created by both broadcasters and crowd alike.
Locals and visitors flock to the Cool Insuring Arena from October through April. A pride and joy of the area, this 4,794-seat multi-purpose arena, complete with concession stands and merch store, is the place of all the Thunder’s home games during the season. Come rain, snow, or shine, it’s a perfect indoor, family-friendly activity during the colder months of the year.
However, as mentioned before, some may be unfamiliar with the team (or perhaps the Lake George Area in general). As such, some may not understand the buildup surrounding the event(s), or perhaps want to learn more. So, to help those of you become more acquainted, here’s a helpful guide on the history, current hype, and enjoyment factors of the Adirondack Thunder phenomenon.
From Humble Sparks to Crashing Bolts
For those who didn’t know, the Adirondack Thunder are a part of the ECHL, or Eastern Conference Hockey League, which consists of 29 teams across 2 divisions. Not only are they an AHL (American Hockey League) affiliate of the Utica Comets, but also an NHL (National Hockey League) affiliate of the New Jersey Devils.
It may be hard to believe, but some of these young athletes playing in our own backyard (or ice rink) move on to play in the NHL, some even going on to win Stanley Cups (a recent example being forward, Ryan Lomberg, with the 2023 Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers). As such, attending Thunder games is a fantastic way of seeing some of the up-and-coming stars of professional hockey.
Believe it or not, the Adirondack Thunder is a relatively new team, only arriving in Glens Falls in 2015. Hockey’s been in the area for decades prior, but from other names you may remember (such as the Adirondack Red Wings in the 80’s and 90’s, or the Adirondack Phantoms of the early 2010’s). The now-current and popular team formed when the previous team, the Adirondack Flames, announced they were relocating to Stockton, California. In exchange, the once-named Stockton Thunder moved right here in the Adirondacks.
It didn’t take long for this young franchise to find success, having advanced to the playoffs in their 1st season during 2015-2016, and having won the 1st Playoff Series, not seen in Adirondack Hockey since the 1994 Adirondack Red Wings. Shortly afterwards, during the 2017-2018 season, the Thunder kicked things up a notch by finishing in 1st place in their division and reaching the conference finals.
However, there were a few rough years after their initial runs, having been suspended during the 2020-2021 season during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and finishing last in their division in 2021-2022.
Things have quickly rebounded though, thanks to the new head coach, Pete MacArthur, who changed the course of this beloved team back to 1st place, and to another conference finals appearance during the 2023-2024 season. It’s also worth noting that this squad secured the most wins in team history with 43 (over 72 games).
With Coach MacArthur’s recent run, alongside a slew of exciting young talent, the hype is very much alive for the upcoming 2024-2025 campaign. A winning culture certainly draws in a lot of hope and excitement, and those are certainly 2 words to describe the Adirondack Thunder right now. Nevertheless, hopefully hearing about the legacy and history of this team is able to charge up your excitement to the next level, whether you’re a new fan or a season ticket holder.
Photo Credit: Kacey O'Brien
A Rumbling Roster
Of course, all the hype and ambitions the Thunder have is thanks to the players on the ice. These vigorous, young athletes, who may very well work their way up to the NHL someday, competing in front of local crowds who praise them, and against opposing rivals who wish to best them.
The Thunder organization has done well in retaining several key pieces of their developed system, as well as finding new talent with the hopes of rising to even greater heights. Below are examples of names that will have the analyst inside of you cheering (the fans already are, for sure).
Notable Resigns
Ryan Smith – Forward
Now entering his 5th season with the team, this team CO-MVP and assistant captain has proven to be a consistent heavy-hitter on the offense. Smith scored 50 points (27 goals, 23 assists), a career best, during the 2023-2024 season and has had 133 career points (64 goals, 69 assists) overall.
Ryan Wheeler – Defenseman
Wheeler had a breakthrough during his 1st season with the Thunder, scoring 22 points (10 goals, 12 assists), nearly double what he had his previous 3 seasons combined with other clubs. On top of this, he received the team’s Unsung Hero Award for having excelled in multiple roles, and going above and beyond.
Darian Skeoch – Defenseman
Skeoch joined the team in the middle of last season in a trade with the Savannah Ghost Pirates. Although primarily known as a defensive player (7 pts. – 1 goal, 6 assists in 44 games with the Thunder), he has been praised by staff for his leadership (assistant captain for the Ghost Pirates) and his tough, physical playing style.
Tristan Ashbrook – Forward
Although at the time of writing he has yet to be resigned to a longer deal, a special mention goes to last season’s rookie sensation, Tristan Ashbrook, who recorded 57 pts. (32 goals, 25 assists) in 69 games. Ashbrook set the record for the most goals scored by a rookie in Thunder history, and fans are eagerly hoping and awaiting his return to the ice.
New Additions
Taylor Ford - Defenseman
Playing for 5 seasons at McGill University in Montreal, recording 21 points in 115 games, Ford was the captain for his team, and has been shown to play the game with high levels of intensity and intelligence. The Adirondack Thunder are looking forward to his leadership being a valuable asset to the team.
David Fessenden – Goaltender
With 5 years of experience in D1 NCAA hockey (University of Alabama-Huntsville, University of New Hampshire, and Canisius College), Fesseden has played in 79 games, posting a .903 save percentage and 2 shutouts. Thunder coach Pete MacArthur has shown excitement for Fesseden’s 6’6” size and athleticism, and is hoping he is a key contributor to the team.
High-Voltage Fun
Besides the games themselves, home attendance is an engaging experience for the whole family, with dozens of theme nights and special events throughout the season. Many of these occasions provide themed giveaways that are sure to make a fan out of anyone. Below are a few examples that have been consistent hits:
*You can access the 2024-2025 promotional schedule by clicking this link.
Home Opener – Featuring a youth jersey giveaway (to the first 1,000 fans 14 & under), as well as a glow stick giveaway (to the first 3,000 fans).
Military Appreciation Day – Featuring a military t-shirt giveaway (to the first 1,000 fans). The players also wear specialty-designed ‘military’ jerseys to be auctioned off.
Kid’s Day Game – Kids can participate in a postgame skate with the Adirondack Thunder team. The players also wear special ‘kids-designed’ jerseys to be auctioned off.
Fan Appreciation Weekend – Featuring special giveaways, including team posters, and in-team discounts all weekend long.
Besides the events, don’t forget to grab a picture with beloved mascot Gunnar during any game. Gunnar frequents the stands throughout the night, hyping up the crowd and delivering high-fives and hugs to the young hockey fans in attendance.
In addition, as mentioned earlier, don’t forget to grab concessions from select stands in-between periods, and check out the Adirondack Thunder Merch Store inside the arena before or after any game.
There are so many reasons to be excited for the Adirondack Thunder Hockey season, and we hope you’ll join the crowd for these thrilling – and chilling – spectacles. This team possesses so much vigor and pride, it’s contagious! Every puck drop, every slapshot, every overtime thriller. Every moment is a wonderful experience when you catch the Thunder in action.
The 2024-2025 season marks the Adirondack Thunder's 10th Anniversary, so be on the lookout for special merch, events, and more!
Check out all upcoming Adirondack Thunder Home Games!
Want to buy tickets? Reserve your seats by going online today!
*Special thanks to the Adirondack Thunder Communications and Broadcasting team for providing photos for use.