The Orlando Solar Bears announced this week that defenseman Tony Follmer has inked a contract to return for the 2026‑27 season, reinforcing the club’s blue line with a player who has already tasted championship success at the collegiate level.
Follmer, a 25‑year‑old native of O’Fallon, Missouri, joins the Bears after a stint that included 62 ECHL appearances in which he recorded 11 points, comprising one goal and ten assists. His college years at Bemidji State University were marked by a four‑season run that yielded 12 points in 127 games and culminated in a 2023‑24 Central Collegiate Hockey Association title.
Championship pedigree meets professional ambition
Beyond the numbers, Follmer’s leadership was evident when he captained the Stars in his final junior season of 2020‑21, guiding a young squad through a competitive schedule and earning respect from coaches and teammates alike.
The move signals the Bears’ intent to blend youthful talent with veteran savvy as they aim to contend for a playoff berth. Fans can expect the defenseman’s familiar presence to add stability and a winning mindset to a roster that is eager to build on recent momentum.
Follmer’s journey from the United States Hockey League to the ECHL and finally to the professional ranks reflects a steady ascent. His experience across three seasons with Sioux Falls and Lincoln in the USHL provided a foundation that he has continued to expand upon in the pro arena.