The Belfast Giants are pleased to announce the signing of Canadian defenceman Garrett McFadden for the 2025/26 season.
From Kincardine, Ontario, the 27-year-old blueliner arrives in Belfast following a solid campaign with HC Innsbruck in the ICE Hockey League – Austria’s top-tier professional competition. A steady and mobile defenceman with leadership experience and a well-rounded game, McFadden brings a high level of North American and European professional pedigree to the Giants’ defensive unit.
Across the last two seasons, in addition to icing in Austria, McFadden made more than 40 combined appearances for Czech Extraliga side HC Energie Karlovy Vary and HK Poprad of the Slovakian Tipos Extraliga. McFadden’s ability to adapt to multiple systems, leagues, and levels of competition marked him out as a reliable and intelligence presence on the ice.
Adam Keefe, Head Coach of the Belfast Giants, said: “Garrett is a very good, smooth skating defenceman who can play in all situations. He brings great character and leadership qualities and is hungry to join a team that has high expectations of winning trophies. We are looking forward to seeing him in a Giants jersey.”
Prior to his time in Europe, McFadden began his professional career in the AHL and ECHL, representing the Lehigh Valley Phantoms and the Reading Royals, captaining the latter during the 2022/23 season. Before that, McFadden played three seasons of USports hockey with Acadia University, recording over 80 appearances for the Nova Scotia-based side.
Commenting on signing with the Belfast Giants, Garrett McFadden said: “After a couple of great seasons in Europe, I was looking for the right opportunity to keep growing as a player and to be part of a strong, team-first culture. From everything I’ve heard about Belfast – the fanbase, the professionalism, and the level of competition – this felt like a great fit. I’m looking forward to getting to work, getting settled, and doing what I can to help the club achieve its goals this season.”
2025/26 Belfast Giants season tickets are on sale now. For more information or to secure your seat, please click here.
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