Over the next 2 weeks we are going to be taking a look at the players who were released on our protected list for 2023-2024. This weekly series will be a reflection of who these players are, where they have come from, and what makes us excited to bring them back to Macon. Help us welcome Right Winger/Center Branden Makara.
Makara, a 26-year-old from Ottawa, ON, came to Macon after a trade with the Pensacola Ice Flyers at the end of the 2022-2023 season.
The right handed winger began his career playing for the Ottawa Junior 67’s in the Ontario Elite Hockey League where he over 105 games from u14-u18 Branden was able to post 95 points over those 4 seasons. At the tail end of 2013-14 Makara moved on to the Gloucester Rangers of the CCHL where he played one game. Branden stayed in Gloucester going into 2014-15 where he put up 8 points in 21 games before moving on once again to the Cumberland Grads where over a season and a half he was able to post 73 points in 85 games including 30 goals.
Choosing a college sent Makara to Colorado College for two seasons playing 65 games with 13 points to his credit. After 2 seasons however Branden went back to his home country and the University of Ottawa in USports where he played 16 games with 7 points before turning pro this season. Makara signed with Pensacola and played 25 games with 9 points before being loaned to the Orlando Solar Bears where he put up 3 points in 16 games over the season.
Coach Niedert made the move at the end of the season to acquire the versatile winger/center. Branden should play a big role for the Mayhem moving forward.
Keep an eye out every Thursday for another look at one of our returning players!
The Mayhem will be heading back to the Macon Coliseum this year as they attempt to claim the President’s Cup. Full and Half Season Tickets are on sale now by calling 478-803-1592 and guarantee yourself a spot today!