The Florida Everblades have announced that forward Vladimir Nikiforov has signed a contract for the 2010-11 season, making him the ninth player signed by the Everblades for the upcoming season.

Nikiforov joins the Everblades after spending the majority of the past two seasons with the Utah Grizzlies of the ECHL. In 2009-10 the 22-year-old tallied 51 points (19 goals, 32 assists) and 22 penalty minutes in 61 games with the Grizzlies.

In his rookie campaign in 2008-09 Nikiforov attended training camp with the New York Islanders American Hockey League affiliate, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers and began the season there. In 19 total games with the Sound Tigers during the year, the 5-foot-8, 170 pound winger notched five points (1 goal, 4 assists) and 19 PIM.

During the remainder of the ’08-’09 season Nikiforov registered 33 points (10 goals, 23 assists) and 10 PIM in 45 regular season games with the Grizzlies and chipped in five points in five Kelly Cup Playoff games.

Prior to joining the professional ranks Nikiforov, who was born in Lithuania, but grew up on Long Island in Hauppauge, NY, played three seasons at the junior level in the Ontario Hockey League with the Barrie Colts and the Sarnia Sting.

Deposits are being accepted now for 2010-11 Florida Everblades season tickets. The Everblades begin the 2010-11 season Friday, Oct. 15, when they host the Gwinnett Gladiators at 7:30 p.m. from Germain Arena.

Visit www.floridaeverblades.com and www.germainarena.com for more information.