KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Knoxville Ice Bears announced the signing of former Stevenson men's ice hockey standouts Jack Karlsson and Blake Benson. The Ice Bears are members of the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL).

Established in 2002, the Ice Bears were an inaugural charter member of the SPHL. The franchise has captured four SPHL championships and five regular-season titles.

Benson arrives in Knoxville following a tremendous three-year career with the Mustangs, where the forward made a significant impact on the program. A three-time Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) All-Conference selection, Benson recorded 80 career points while establishing himself as a key contributor in the faceoff circle.

"I am very excited for the future in Knoxville," said Benson. "I am thankful for my teammates, coaches, and opportunity's at Stevenson that helped get me to this point."

Off the ice, Benson excelled in the classroom, earning AHCA/Krampade All-American Scholar honors, along with multiple academic accolades at the conference level.

Karlsson joins Knoxville following a decorated career at Stevenson, where he established himself as one of the most accomplished student-athletes in program history. The defender was a two-time All-American and a three-time MAC First Team All-Conference selection. He also earned MAC Player of the Year and MAC Defensive Player of the Year honors.

"I was at Stevenson for four years and graduated from there as well. I loved my time there, and Stevenson hockey played a huge part in helping me get to this point," said Karlsson. "I'm really thankful for all the coaches, teammates, and experiences that helped me grow as a player and as a person. This opportunity to go pro means a lot to me, and I'm excited to take the next step in my career."

In addition to his success on the ice, Karlsson excelled in the classroom, earning 2025-26 MAC Senior Scholar-Athlete honors for his outstanding academic and athletic achievements throughout his career at Stevenson.

Karlsson has also earned a tryout agreement with the Wheeling Nailers, the ECHL affiliate of the Columbus Blue Jackets.

The Ice Bears are set to open their season on Friday, October 16.

Stevenson University congratulates Blake Benson and Jack Karlsson on this exciting opportunity and wishes them continued success as they begin their professional hockey careers.