The Orlando Solar Bears announced this week that they have inked rookie defenseman Jarod Crespo to a contract for the 2026‑27 campaign, adding a fresh defensive option to their lineup.
Collegiate pedigree and early accolades
Crespo spent three seasons at Penn State University, appearing in 141 NCAA games and earning a Big Ten All‑Star Team honorable mention during the 2025‑26 season. He also captured the conference’s sportsmanship award and served as an alternate captain for the Nittany Lions, showcasing leadership both on and off the ice.
Before turning professional, the New Jersey native captained the Green Bay Gamblers in the United States Hockey League during the 2021‑22 season, a year in which he posted a career‑high 28 points while accumulating 82 penalty minutes. His USHL career totals sit at 36 points and 143 penalty minutes, numbers that reflect a blend of offensive contribution and physical play.
Crespo’s pro debut came with the San Jose Barracuda, where he recorded two points in two appearances, including his first AHL goal on April 18. The stint with the Barracuda, the top affiliate of the Tampa Bay Lightning, gave him a taste of the next level and positioned him for the upcoming season with Orlando.
Coach comments highlighted the team’s intent to blend youthful energy with veteran stability, noting that Crespo’s defensive reliability and willingness to engage physically should complement the existing core. Fans can expect to see the 24‑year‑old integrate quickly into the Bears’ defensive schemes as the club aims to build on its recent playoff push.
The move also underscores the Solar Bears’ continued partnership with the Tampa Bay Lightning organization, a relationship that has previously funneled talent through the San Jose Barracuda and now into Orlando. With the 2026‑27 season on the horizon, Crespo’s addition is positioned to be a meaningful piece of the Bears’ defensive depth chart.