08/30/2026
🚨 BLOCKBUSTER LATE NIGHT TRADE ALERT 🚨
We've acquired forward AJ Schlepp and goaltender Gabe Rosek from the Monroe Moccasins in exchange for future considerations!
Schlepp, an imposing 6'8", 209-lb forward, is widely regarded as one of the toughest players in professional hockey. The 26-year-old Medicine Hat, Alberta, native recorded 305 penalty minutes in 34 FPHL games during the 2025-26 season and also appeared in two ECHL games with the Worcester Railers.
“AJ is, in my opinion, the toughest player in the league, and we are incredibly excited to bring him to Blue Ridge,” said Head Coach and General Manager of Hockey Operations Vojtech Zemlicka. “He brings a huge presence and is always willing to answer the bell and stand up for his teammates. He's proven that he never backs down from a challenge. He's capable of changing the momentum of a game and we felt we needed a player like him this season. He's a great presence to have in the locker room day to day. We are incredibly excited to have a player of his stature in Blue Ridge.”
Rosek, a 6'1", 181-lb goaltender from East Lansing, Michigan, impressed in his first professional action with the Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs (SPHL) and Monroe last season. The 25-year-old posted an 8-3-1 record with Roanoke, recording a 2.64 GAA, .908 SV% and two shutouts. With Monroe, he posted a 1.67 GAA and .943 SV% while winning all three starts. Rosek previously played NCAA Division III hockey at Concordia University Wisconsin, posting a .918 SV% in 20 games in 2024-25 and earning NCHA All-Conference recognition.
“Gabe really impressed us with his composure and consistency,” Zemlicka said. “His numbers with Roanoke and Monroe prove he can perform at a high level. We believe his resume, college experience and detailed approach will make our goaltending group stronger. He has a very high ceiling and potential to be one of the league's top goaltenders. We're very excited to see what he'll be able to do with us.”
Give a huge to AJ and Gabe! Season tickets are on sale now to see them hit the ice in 48 days at blueridgebobcats.com/26-27-season-tickets!
