Ely native Joey Pierce wrapped up his college hockey career earlier this year, but he’s not quite ready yet to hang up his skates.
The 23-year-old Pierce will play professional hockey overseas, after signing a contract with the Fife Flyers, a Scottish professional hockey team located in Kirkcaldy, Fife.
The Flyers, who play in the Elite Ice Hockey League, announced Pierce’s signing on Wednesday.
“Joe is a steady defenseman who keeps the game simple, competes hard and brings a physical presence to the back end,” said Tim Wallace, head coach of the Flyers.
Pierce arrives in Fife following a four-year collegiate career with the University of Minnesota Duluth where he established himself as a dependable, team-first presence and a respected leader both on and off the ice.
Pierce skated in 136 games for the Bulldogs, earning a reputation as a reliable defensive presence capable of shutting down opponents in all situations while bringing a physical edge to the lineup.
His leadership qualities were recognized throughout his time at Minnesota Duluth. After serving as an alternate captain during the 2024-25 campaign, Pierce was named captain of the Bulldogs for the 2025-26 season.
Prior to his collegiate career, Pierce played in the USHL with the Lincoln Stars and spent time in the NAHL with the Minnesota Wilderness following an impressive high school career in Minnesota.
Pierce spent his early years in Ely and played youth hockey here as well as one season for the high school Timberwolves in 2016-17.
He transferred to Hermantown in 2017 and was part of two Hawks state tournament teams and a finalist for the Minnesota Mr. Hockey Award.
“He has shown leadership everywhere he has played, and through our conversations it was clear he was excited about the opportunity to come to Fife and be part of what we are building,” said Wallace.
