Liam Gotimer
Latest work: U20 Suomi-sarja
About
Hi there, I’m Liam.
I’m an award-winning hockey play-by-play broadcaster and communications professional with over 240 professional games called across the ECHL and FPHL.
My career in professional sports started with an internship at the Savannah Ghost Pirates, before moving into Director roles with the Atlanta Gladiators (ECHL) and the Columbus River Dragons (FPHL), and most recently, remote play-by-play work with Spirit of Hockey U20 in Finland.
I truly love what I do, bringing genuine passion and a strong work ethic to a front office every day. If you’re looking for a motivated broadcaster who is ready to step in and make an immediate impact, I’d love to connect.
▶ My work: youtube.com/@liamgotimerLiam has called every Spirit of Hockey game since the start of the 2026–27 season, and not one broadcast has been anything less than first class. He prepares thoroughly for every game, knows the players and the league, and keeps the broadcast flowing from the opening face-off to the final horn. Working with him has been easy from day one: he replies quickly, keeps to what is agreed, and is a gentleman through and through. I recommend him without reservation to any club that wants English commentary on its games.
Liam reported directly to me at the Atlanta Gladiators, where he served as Director of Broadcasting and Communication from 2023 to 2025. What stood out most about him was his energy. It was always above and beyond, and it lifted everyone around him. He never limited himself to his job description. Whatever the team needed, he was ready to jump in, whether or not it was his responsibility.
On the mic, Liam did an excellent job calling our broadcasts. He came to every game well prepared, and that preparation showed in a polished, engaging product for our fans. Off the air, he brought a great personality and a positive attitude to the office every day, and he was a genuine pleasure to work with.
Any organization would be lucky to have Liam’s work ethic, versatility and enthusiasm. I recommend him without hesitation.
It was an honor getting to work with you, and I can honestly say you made this season a much better experience for me. From the very beginning, you made me feel seen, valued, and like I genuinely belonged instead of just being an extra person around the crew.
Thank you for always including me—whether it was buying me lunch, letting me come to post game meals with y’all, or simply treating me like I mattered. Those may seem like small things, but they made a huge difference to me and showed the kind of person and leader you are.
You did an incredible job calling the games this season, and it was great getting to watch and learn from you throughout the year.
Broadcast reels & clips
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Prep & coverage
Tyler Barrow Named 2025–26 FPHL MVP
Columbus River Dragons forward Tyler Barrow was named the Federal Prospects Hockey League’s Most Valuable Player for the 2025–26 season, capping a run that set a new franchise scoring record.
Tyler Barrow Named 2025–26 FPHL MVP
COLUMBUS, GA. — The Columbus River Dragons announced today that forward Tyler Barrow has been named the Federal Prospects Hockey League’s Most Valuable Player for the 2025–26 season following a historic first year in the league.
Barrow, 28, led the FPHL in scoring during a dominant offensive campaign, recording 42 goals and 70 assists for 112 points in 54 regular season games. His 112 points not only paced the league, but also made him the only player in the FPHL to surpass the 100-point mark this season. The Massapequa, New York native becomes the first River Dragon to win the league MVP award since Justin MacDonald earned the honor in 2024.
“The league MVP is an incredible honor, and I’m truly grateful to have won it,” Tyler Barrow said. “I couldn’t have done it without the support of my teammates, coaches, and the entire staff in Columbus who believed in me and helped me every step of the way.”
Barrow established himself as one of the league’s most complete players, combining elite scoring with a physical, two-way game. He posted a 22-game point streak, tied Patriks Marcinkevics for the league lead in goals, and contributed in all situations with 10 power-play goals, two shorthanded goals, and three game-winners for the River Dragons.
“Tyler is one of the most intelligent players on the ice,” Head Coach Jerome “Boom-Boom” Bechard said. “When you combine his skating ability with his skill set, he becomes a truly dangerous player every time he’s out there. He had an incredible season, but a lot of credit also goes to his teammates, who did the little things and created opportunities that allowed him to play his game and be successful.”
The MVP honor caps off an impressive first FPHL season for Barrow, who joined the River Dragons with extensive professional experience across North America and Europe. Prior to arriving in Columbus, Barrow played for the Hammer Eisbären in Germany’s Oberliga Nord, the Fayetteville Marksmen and Peoria Rivermen of the SPHL, the Liège Bulldogs of Belgium’s CEHL, DVTK Jegesmedvék of Hungary’s Erste Liga, and the Manchester Storm of the EIHL in England. During his SPHL career with Fayetteville and Peoria, Barrow totaled 97 points on 40 goals and 57 assists in 89 games. During the 2023–24 season with Fayetteville, he served as an alternate captain and recorded 41 points in 39 games.
Before turning professional, Barrow played four collegiate seasons at Wilkes University, where he registered 132 points on 52 goals and 80 assists in 88 career games. His collegiate honors included USCHO Rookie of the Year, two MAC Offensive Player of the Year awards, and four consecutive First Team All-Conference selections.
“Congratulations to Tyler on an incredible season and a well-deserved League MVP honor,” River Dragons COO Jeff Croop said. “Tyler’s work ethic, leadership, and consistency set the standard every single night. This award is a reflection of the impact he had on our team and the respect he earned across the league. We’re proud of everything he accomplished this season.” Barrow’s MVP season adds another major accomplishment to an already decorated hockey résumé and further solidifies his place among the top players in the FPHL during the 2025–26 campaign.
Atlanta Gladiators, NHL’s Nashville Predators Extend Affiliation Agreement
The Atlanta Gladiators and Nashville Predators signed a two-year extension of their ECHL affiliation agreement, continuing a partnership that has already sent 11 players up to AHL or NHL contracts.
Atlanta Gladiators, NHL’s Nashville Predators Extend Affiliation Agreement
For Immediate Release: Thursday, March 13th, 2025
DULUTH, Ga. — The Atlanta Gladiators announced today that the club has signed a two-year extension to continue as the ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Nashville Predators.
“The Nashville Predators and Milwaukee Admirals have been terrific affiliates the last two years,” Alex Campbell, the owner of the Atlanta Gladiators, commented. “We’re proud to extend our partnership through the 2026-27 season, and I look forward to continued success for the Predators, the Admirals, and the Gladiators.”
Since joining forces with Nashville and Milwaukee prior to the 2023-24 season, Atlanta has had 11 players join the club under either an American Hockey League or National Hockey League contract, further adding to the developmental pipeline between all three teams. This season, the Gladiators have benefited from additions such as defenseman Jeremy Hanzel (48GP-3G-15A), forward Alexander Campbell (3GP-2G-2A), and first-year goaltender Ethan Haider, a former 5th round selection of the Nashville Predators in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft (29GP, 16-11-1, 3 SO).
The Predators are led by head coach Andrew Brunette, who played for the ECHL's Hampton Roads Admirals during the 1993-94 season. Since taking the helm, Brunette has guided Nashville to a record of 72-62-12. Additionally, forward Cole Smith who now has over 200 games of NHL experience, began his professional career with the ECHL’s Florida Everblades.
The Predators currently sit in seventh place in the NHL’s Central Division, with a record of 25-32-7, for 57 points. This past season, Nashville qualified for the Stanley Cup Playoffs, finishing as a Wild Card team in the consistently competitive Western Conference.
"We are excited to keep the Atlanta Gladiators as part of the Predators family moving forward," Predators General Manager Barry Trotz said. "We've been fortunate enough to reap the benefits of having a longstanding AHL affiliate in Milwaukee, and we are hoping that our partnership with Atlanta will blossom into something similar. The proximity between our two teams offers us the chance to further expand the game of hockey in the South, with two strong, passionate fan bases cheering us on. I'd like to thank the Gladiators organization – including the ATL Hockey Group, led by Alex Campbell – for their leadership and commitment to making this relationship even stronger in the coming years."
Over the years, Nashville has partnered with several teams, including the Hampton Roads Admirals (1998-00), New Orleans Brass (2000-01), Cincinnati Cyclones (2001-02, 07-17), Toledo Storm (2003-04), Norfolk Admirals (2017-18), the Florida Everblades (2019-22), and most recently the Atlanta Gladiators (2023-Present).
Atlanta was initially affiliated with the NHL’s Atlanta Thrashers from 2003 until 2011, when the franchise relocated to Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Following the Thrasher’s departure from the NHL, the Gladiators have partnered with the Arizona Coyotes (2011-15, 2022-23), Boston Bruins (2015-18), Ottawa Senators (2021-22), and the Nashville Predators (2023-Present).
“We’re extremely excited to be extending our affiliation with the Nashville Predators organization,” Executive Vice President of the Atlanta Gladiators Jared Youngman said. “This decision solidifies our commitment to long-term success, and strengthens our collaboration with our NHL and AHL partners, ensuring we stay focused on excellence both on and off the ice.”
The Predators are currently on a west coast road trip, with their next game set for tomorrow, March 14th, in Anaheim against the Ducks at 10 p.m. EST.
Columbus Acquires Star Forward Yaroslav Yevdokimov
The Columbus River Dragons acquired forward Yaroslav Yevdokimov in a trade with the Biloxi Breakers, adding a proven scorer with professional experience across North America and Europe to a roster built for a playoff push.
Columbus Acquires Star Forward Yaroslav Yevdokimov
COLUMBUS, GA. — The Columbus River Dragons announced today that the club has acquired forward Yaroslav Yevdokimov from the Biloxi Breakers, in exchange for defenseman Matt Stoia and future considerations.
Yevdokimov, a 32-year-old forward out of Chelyabinsk, Russia, has been an offensive force ever since beginning his FPHL career with the Mississippi Sea Wolves during the 2022—23 season. Yevdokimov's output was 101 points and an FPHL leading 52 goals in 50 games played that year, which earned him a spot as a FPHL Second-Team All-Star.
During the 2023—24 season, Yevdokimov posted 18 points (7G, 11A) in 29 games with the ECHL's Tulsa Oilers, while last year he skated in 21 SPHL games with the Macon Mayhem.
This year, in his return to Mississippi, Biloxi's now former captain is off to a hot start, having already accumulated 24 points (8G, 16A) in 14 games played. Most recently, he had a short stint with the ECHL's Greenville Swamp Rabbits.
On top of his impressive North American resume, the 6-foot-1, 190-pound forward brings extensive overseas experience in Russia and Kazakhstan. In Russia, Yevdokimov developed early in his career by competing in the KHL, VHL, MHL, MHL-B, and Russia’s third tier before moving on to Kazakhstan.
Beginning in the 2013–14 season, he spent nine seasons skating in Kazakhstan, winning the Kazakhstan Cup in 2020–21 and a silver medal the following season, his final year playing in the country.
“Yaroslav has consistently shown the ability to produce offensively, but what really stood out to us is how he earns his chances," River Dragons COO Jeff Croop said. “He plays the game the right way and we believe he’ll be a great fit in our locker room and on the ice. We appreciate everything Matt brought to our team and our locker room, and we wish him the best of luck moving forward.”
Stoia, 26, recorded 10 points (two goals, eight assists) from the blue line in 14 games with the River Dragons this year. The Marysville, Michigan native is no stranger to Mississippi, having appeared in 64 games over the previous two seasons with the then–SeaWolves.
Eric Neiley Comes Out of Retirement, Signs With Atlanta for 2024–25
Veteran forward Eric Neiley came out of retirement to rejoin the Atlanta Gladiators for the 2024–25 season, returning to a franchise where he ranks among the all-time leaders in both goals and points.
Eric Neiley Comes Out of Retirement, Signs With Atlanta for 2024–25
DULUTH, GA (July 10th, 2024) -- The Atlanta Gladiators announced today that veteran forward Eric Neiley has signed an ECHL contract with the club for the 2024-25 season.
Neiley, 32, briefly retired following the 2022-23 season, a campaign in which he notched 44 points (25G, 19A) in 50 games. This past year, Neiley joined head coach Derek Nesbitt behind the bench, serving as an assistant.
"I'm so excited to have Neiley back out there competing again," head coach Derek Nesbitt said. "I say that because that's who he is, an absolute competitor. I know he's been gearing up for this for a while now. He's a huge boost for our leadership group, and he's the type of player who can drag your team into a fight when needed through the dog days of the ECHL season. I can't wait to see him back in the paint, scoring hard goals again!"
In 265 games played with the franchise, the Warminster Township, Pennsylvania native places second in goals scored (103), eighth in assists (95), and fifth in points produced (198). Elsewhere in the ECHL, the right-shot forward has suited up for both the Adirondack Thunder (2017-18), and the Jacksonville Icemen (2020-21)
“I’m looking forward to swapping my suits back to skates," Eric Neiley mentioned. "Injuries played a major role in me stopping to play originally, but after a year of rehab and strengthening, I feel better than ever. I can’t wait to get back out there, in front of our fans in October, and do whatever I can to help get us back to winning consistently."
Prior to turning pro, Neiley played with Dartmouth College for four seasons, appearing in 129 total games, totaling 94 points (45g-49a). Neiley also played in the American Hockey League, skating with the Providence Bruins on two separate occasions.
The Gladiators begin their season on Saturday, October 19th, at home, against the out-of-division Indy Fuel.
Introducing the River Dragons Broadcast Network
The Columbus River Dragons launched the River Dragons Broadcast Network, a new hub for live streaming, podcasts, and exclusive team content built around the franchise’s in-house broadcast operation.
Introducing the River Dragons Broadcast Network
COLUMBUS, Ga. — September 22, 2025 — The Columbus River Dragons are excited to announce the launch of the River Dragons Broadcast Network, the club's new hub for game streaming, podcasts, and exclusive team content!
This season, all 56 games will be streamed live and free of charge on Sporfie, YouTube Live, and Facebook Live. Each broadcast will include 30 minutes of pregame coverage, live play-by-play, engaging intermission content, and post-game recaps.
"Our fans are the heart of this franchise, and the River Dragons Broadcast Network was created with them in mind," play-by-play broadcaster Liam Gotimer said. "By expanding our coverage and digital footprint, we’re ensuring that every fan has the opportunity to stay up to date with the team."
The club is also excited to launch a new seasonal podcast, Chattin’ on the Chattahoochee. Hosted by play-by-play broadcaster Liam Gotimer, each episode features a River Dragon sharing their journey to professional hockey while enjoying a walk along the scenic Chattahoochee River. Episode one of Chattin’ on the Chattahoochee, featuring defenseman Hugh Anderson, will be released Friday, October 3!
The first broadcast of the year will be the Chick-Fil-A Fans' Choice Game on Saturday, October 4, presented by Chick-Fil-A in Midland. Fans can watch the game live on the River Dragons' YouTube channel, with coverage beginning at 7 p.m. and puck drop scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
The 2025–26 regular season officially kicks off on Friday, October 10, at 7:15 p.m., when Columbus battles the Pee-Dee IceCats on the road in an early-season showdown you won’t want to miss.
Don’t miss a moment of the action this year by securing your season tickets today. For details and to reserve your seats, call our ticketing department at 706-507-4625 or fill out the form HERE!
Liam Gotimer Named Play-by-Play Broadcaster and Media Relations Manager
The Columbus River Dragons announced the hiring of Liam Gotimer as the franchise’s Play-by-Play Broadcaster and Media Relations Manager ahead of the 2025–26 season, bringing in a broadcaster with 170+ professional games already called during his tenure with the Atlanta Gladiators.
Liam Gotimer Named Play-by-Play Broadcaster and Media Relations Manager
COLUMBUS, GA, July 28, 2025 — The Columbus River Dragons announced today that Liam Gotimer has been named the club’s new Play-By-Play Broadcaster and Media Relations Manager.
Gotimer, 27, joins the River Dragons from the ECHL’s Atlanta Gladiators, where he called 170+ games on Flo Hockey, MixLR, YouTube, and the Peachtree Sports Network. As a member of the Gladiators, Liam consistently brought the action to life, captivating fans with his energetic commentary and live interactions throughout each game.
“Liam brings the level of professionalism and enthusiasm that our fan base has come to expect,” said Jeff Croop, Ignite Sports and Entertainment COO, Governor, and General Manager. “He’s got some big headsets to fill after Zak and Tom, but we’re confident that he will deliver. We’re excited to have him on board and can’t wait for everyone to hear him call River Dragons hockey.”
A native of Long Island, New York, Liam began his broadcasting career with the State University of New York at Oswego, calling games for the school’s men’s and women’s hockey programs. Following the 2021-22 season, Liam was recognized with a New York State Broadcaster’s Association Award for his play-by-play coverage of Oswego State vs. Brockport in November of 2021.
“I’m truly honored to be named the next Broadcaster and Media Relations Manager of the Columbus River Dragons,” said Liam. “I’d like to sincerely thank Jeff Croop and all of Ignite Sports and Entertainment for welcoming me into this first-class organization and league with open arms. I’m excited for the opportunity to enhance the club’s relationship with our media partners and connect with one of the most passionate fanbases in hockey. Let’s go River Dragons!”
Game Notes Example — Atlanta
Game Notes Example — Columbus
Let’s talk
Need a play-by-play voice, or someone to lead your broadcast and media relations? I’d love to connect.
Email Liam