This morning the Athens Rock Lobsters hockey team shared that 25-year-old Orca Wiesblatt died yesterday in a car accident in British Columbia. This tragic news comes just a little more than a month out from the hockey team’s season opening game.
See the full press release below.
Athens, GA (September 15, 2025) The Athens Rock Lobsters family is devastated to share the heartbreaking news of the passing of former forward Orca Wiesblatt, who tragically lost his life in a traffic accident in British Columbia early Sunday morning, September 14. Orca was just 25 years old.
Orca was more than a player for us, he was part of our very first Rock Lobsters team, helping shape the identity of our franchise in its inaugural season. In 37 games, he recorded 42 points (17 goals, 25 assists), but his contributions went far beyond the stat sheet. He brought energy, toughness, and an infectious smile that lifted both teammates and fans alike.
“Orca will always be remembered as one of the players who helped set the tone for our franchise in its very first season. His passion for the game and his infectious energy made him a fan favorite and a true teammate. But more than that, Orca was an even better person off the ice – kind, humble, and someone everyone was grateful to know. We are devastated by this loss and our thoughts are with his family.” – Scott Hull, President of Athens Rock Lobsters
Born in Calgary, Alberta, Orca’s path through the game showed the resilience that defined his life. From his days with the Calgary Hitmen in the WHL, to battling through injuries in the SPHL, to making a comeback with us in Athens, and most recently earning his spot with the Allen Americans in the ECHL, he proved time and time again that he was willing to fight for every shift.
Steve Martinson (our inaugural season coach and now General Manager & Head Coach for the Allen Americans) shared words that perfectly capture his spirit:
“We are all heartbroken. Orca was really looking forward to this next step in his hockey career. He wasn’t just skilled—he was a momentum-changing hitter. I can see his grin when he came back to the bench after one of his big hits. That’s what we’ll miss the most. Orca’s infectious smile.”
Off the ice, Orca’s story was just as inspiring. The son of two deaf parents, he grew up in a home built on perseverance, love, and creativity. Alongside his brothers, who also play professionally, Orca carried forward a family legacy that made an impact well beyond the rink.
Our hearts are with the Wiesblatt family, his teammates, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Orca will forever be a part of Rock Lobster’s history, and he will never be forgotten by those who cheered him on in Athens and beyond. Once a Rock Lobster, always a Rock Lobster.
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