Thunder Bolster Blueline
Published on August 14, 2026 under Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL)
Stockton Thunder News Release
(Stockton, Ca.) - The Stockton Thunder has signed a pair of defensemen, each with experience in the Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL).
Matthew Garcia, whom the Thunder claimed in the expansion, draft, and Josh Slegers have signed with Stockton for the upcoming FPHL season, in which the Thunder will play its home opener on Saturday October 17 at the Adventist Health Arena.
"Matt Garcia plays a great agitator role on the blueline and takes pride in shutting down guys defensively," Thunder Director of Hockey Operations Gary Graham said. "He can play in all situations. Thunder fans will enjoy his style."
Garcia is 5-foot-11, 190 pounds. He has played for the Athens Rock Lobsters and Twin City Thunderbirds in the FPHL. The 25-year old right handed shooting defenseman is from Homer, Glen, Illinois.
Josh Slegers, is also a right handed defenseman. He's also had a stint in Twin City, as well as with the Blue Ridge Bobcats in the FPHL and the Evansville Thunderbirds of the Southern Professional Hockey League.
"Josh is a big body that skates very well," Graham said. "He plays an offensive style of game from the blueline and can help with offensive situations. Josh is excited to find the right home to develop for the season in Stockton.
The 29-year old Slegers stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 195 pounds. He hails from Simcoe, Ontario.
For tickets and more information about the Stockton Thunder, visit www.stocktonhockey.com or follow the team on Instagram and Facebook at @stocktonthunderhockey.
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