Longtime Florida Everblades player Ernie Hartlieb announced his retirement from hockey Tuesday night during the charity Everblades Alumni game at Germain Arena.

The 31-year-old hangs up his skates after 10 years of professional hockey, the final six of those spent primarily with the Everblades. He exits as the team’s all-time leader in games played with 341 and ranks among the top in all-time team history in points (257, 3rd), assists (171, 3rd), goals (86, 5th) and power-play goals (33, T-1st)

Hartlieb is joining Fifth/Third Securities (South Florida) as a licensed sales assistant.

“The whole Everblades family wants to wish Ernie all the best with this exciting new chapter of his life,” Blades president/general manager Craig Brush said. “We especially want to thank him for everything he has done for this organization both on and off the ice.”

A versatile player that played both offense and defense throughout his career, Hartlieb first suited up for the Everblades during the 2004-05 campaign, playing in 15 regular season games. He was instrumental in helping the team reach their second consecutive Kelly Cup Finals by posting eight points in 14 post-season games in 2005.

The following season he earned a spot on the 2006 ECHL All-Star team and finished the 2005-06 campaign with 56 points in 55 games. Hartlieb’s best season came in 2007-08 when he collected 65 points (24g, 41a) in 72 games.

Hartlieb averaged 49 points a year over the last five seasons in Florida.

“I’d like to thank all the Everblades fans and everyone in the Everblades organization,” said Hartlieb. “I can’t think of a better place to close out my career. Everyone from Mr. & Mrs. Brush, the front office personnel to the arena game-day staff and especially the fans have all been like family to me. I’m excited about my new opportunity, but will certainly miss being on the ice.”