Lucas Herrmann Returns to Bears for 2026, has ‘Unfinished Business’
The Bing Lee Sydney Bears are pleased to announce the return of 25-year-old import forward Lucas Herrmann for the 2026 Australian Ice Hockey League (AIHL) season.
“Re-signing Lucas as our first import for the 2026 season is a statement for our club,” Director of Hockey Operations Nathan Graham revealed. “He is well acquainted with our league and organisation, is a proven offensive contributor, and consistently engages at a high level with teammates, staff, fans, and sponsors.”
“I am beyond excited to return to the Bears for this upcoming season,” Herrmann enthused. “I wanted to return to Sydney for the amazing people in the organisation, the fans and hockey community, and the guys in the locker room.”
Bears fans have plenty of reason for excitement at Herrmann’s return to the Bears’ Den. In 2024, the American forward posted 66 points (22G, 44A) in 26 contests, averaging more than 2.5 points per game, and finished third in league scoring.
Herrmann's 44 assists were a Sydney Bears record for a single season, eclipsing Tomáš Landa's 42-assist season in 2007.
Consistent production separates the great from the good, and Herrmann’s consistency put him in rarefied air. In Herrmann’s 26 regular-season games, he recorded points in 25.
Following the 2024 season, Herrmann joined Strasbourg in the France2 league and notched 29 points (10G, 19A) in 29 regular-season games and 24 points (12G, 12A) in 13 playoff games.
During Herrmann’s last campaign with the Bears, the team secured the minor premiership in 2024 for the first time since 2008. However, the team lost to the eventual champion, Canberra Brave, in the Goodall Cup semi-final.
Nearly 18 months later, that disappointing end to the season fuels Herrmann’s competitive fire. “I feel we have some unfinished business from our last season, and it won’t be satisfied until we lift the Goodall Cup,” Herrmann affirmed.
Herrmann’s character makes him an ideal import for the 2026 AIHL season, according to Graham. “Lucas is a high-character individual who brings strong leadership qualities and is highly respected in the locker room.”
“His competitive mindset and hunger to win play an important role in driving culture - he wants to win with us. Fans in the Bears’ Den will be thrilled to see him return and entertain in our new rink.”
Herrmann concluded by saying he is “looking forward to getting back on the ice with the guys and playing in front of the great fans at the new Macquarie Arena!”
Don’t miss your chance to see Lucas Herrmann and the team chase Goodall Cup glory this season by securing a 2026 season pass option that suits you.
