Niedert Returns to First Arena

Elmira, NY - The Elmira Enforcers are pleased to announce that their first ever signing is now in Elmira, as goaltender Nick Niedert is making his return to the First Arena.

Niedert, 36, is a native of Hudson, IA and has 14 years of experience that spans 32 different teams ranging from the EPHL to the AHL over the course of his career. In addition to his veteran presence in the locker room, Niedert offers a familiarity with First Arena and Elmira itself, having previously played two stints with the Jackals. He managed to capture the FHL Championship with the Watertown Wolves in 2014-15. In the last two seasons in which he played in more than 10 games for one team, he averaged a 3.22 goals against average with a .891 save percentage. During his time in Elmira, Niedert had a collective 2.63 goals against with a .909 save percentage while going 3-1-0.

Niedert has drawn comparisons by team management to Vegas Golden Knights goalie Marc-Andre Fleury due to his community first nature in past places he has played. He has raised funds for NY Rangers Assist to help out youth hockey and creating an all-girls hockey team.

When asked about what made him decide to return after a season filled with rumors of his retirement, Niedert said: “Robbie [Nichols] made the decision for me to come back easy. When I knew he was going to be the owner, after everything he has done for me, I told him that if there was anything I could do to let me know and I’d do it. The City of Elmira is awesome. I’ve had great experiences with the city and at that arena. I won my first ECHL game there with the Jackals and as of right now, my last ECHL game against the club.”

Team owner Robbie Nichols commented, “Nick Niedert is a goalie I called up to Elmira a few years ago. With Nick, you know you are going to get 100% every night and he is a great guy in the community. We look forward to Nick leading both on and off the ice.”

Tickets for Saturday’s game against the Watertown Wolves are still available online at tickets.com or by calling the front office directly at (607) 734-7825.

Photo credit: CEQuinn Photography


The Elmira Enforcers are in their inaugural season and proud members of the Federal Hockey League. Ticket packages and sponsorship packages for Elmira's first season of FHL hockey are available now by contacting First Arena directly at (607) 734-7825.