The Orlando Solar Bears announced this week that they have re‑signed defenseman Tony Follmer for the upcoming 2026‑27 campaign, securing the 25‑year‑old for a second full professional stint in the city.
A Familiar Face Reinforces the Defense
Born in O'Fallon, Missouri, Follmer brings a blend of size, experience and leadership to a blue line that has been reshaped over the past few seasons. After a standout junior career in the United States Hockey League, he entered professional hockey with a reputation for steady play and a knack for generating offense from the back end.
In 62 ECHL appearances for Orlando and other affiliates, Follmer has compiled 11 points, including a single goal and ten assists, numbers that reflect his role as a responsible defender who also contributes to the rush.
His collegiate years at Bemidji State University in Minnesota saw him log 12 points over 127 games, a span that culminated in a championship with the Central Collegiate Hockey Association in the 2023‑24 season, highlighting his ability to perform under pressure on big stages.
Prior to college, Follmer spent three seasons in the USHL with the Sioux Falls Stampede and the Lincoln Stars, appearing in 125 games and eventually being named captain of the Stars in 2020‑21, a testament to his leadership qualities.
The re‑signing aligns with the Solar Bears' strategy of blending youthful talent with proven veterans as they aim to return to the top of the ECHL standings. General manager praised the move, noting that Follmer's familiarity with the organization's culture will help maintain continuity while adding depth to the defensive corps.