The FPHL’s Blue Ridge Bobcats have announced that defenseman Nolan Sargent, acquired in a blockbuster trade with the Fresno Falcons, has officially signed with the team for the 2026-27 season.

“I’m really excited and can’t wait to join this group of guys,” said Sargent. “I look forward to competing hard every night and contributing to bringing a championship to Blue Ridge.”

Sargent, a Littleton native, adds significant size and experience to the Bobcats’ defensive corps. The 24-year-old played NCAA Division III hockey at Fitchburg State before beginning his professional career as a collegiate signing, appearing in six late-season contests plus a postseason game with the Monroe Moccasins and Pee Dee Ice Cats. 

“Nolan gives us a big, physical presence on the back end,” Blue Ridge head coach Vojtech Zemlicka said. “He has the size and strength to play hard around the net, an area we want to be much better in this season. He uses his reach and physicality to be strong in battles and makes it difficult for teams to establish themselves in our ‘D’ zone. He’s a player that prides himself on a defense-first mentality, and that’s something you need when you’re building a championship team.” 

Back home, Sargent skated for the Denver Jr. Pioneers, Littleton Hawks, Colorado Thunderbirds, Rocky Mountain RoughRiders, Krivo School of Hockey Elite and Regis Jesuit High School.

Photo/FPHL

— Brett Wiseman

(August 26, 2026)