The SPHL’s Knoxville Ice Bears have signed defenseman Cole Mickel for the 2026-27 season.

Mickel returns to Knoxville, having served a brief stint towards the end of last season following the conclusion of his collegiate career at NCAA Division III Saint Mary’s University.

Prior to Saint Mary’s, the Wheat Ridge native spent one season at NCAA D-I Niagara University, where he appeared in 28 games.

In his first year at Saint Mary’s, Mickel scored three goals to go with 14 assists in 25 games, earning him First Team All-MIAC honors. Last year, he averaged an assist per game and finished the season with 28 points, claiming the MIAC Defensive Player of the Year award and being named an All-American by the American Hockey Coaches Association.

Mickel signed with the Ice Bears after his college season ended and played five games with two assists. He made his Ice Bears debut on Mar. 5 at Birmingham. He recorded his first pro point with an assist on Dawson McKinney’s second period goal in a win over Evansville on Mar. 7.

Back in Colorado, Mickel skated for the Boulder Hockey Club, Colorado Thunderbirds and Rocky Mountain RoughRiders.

Photo/Knoxville Ice Bears

— Knoxville Ice Bears Staff

(September 5, 2026)