(Spruce Grove, AB) – The Spruce Grove Saints are proud to announce that 2002 born defenseman Zachary Douglas has signed a letter of intent for the 2019-2020 season.
Douglas is the second Canadian Athletic Club Canadians Midget AAA player to sign a letter of intent with the Saints for next season, joining current teammate Liam Hughes as Saint in waiting.
After over coming an injury sustained at the Saints main camp last fall, Douglas has collected 6 assists and 2 penalty minutes in 15 Alberta Midget Hockey League (AMHL) contests.
General Manager Rob Sklaruk discussed what to expect from the newly signed prospect.
“Zach has been on our radar for a year or so, he is someone when have been watching closely. He had an unfortunate injury that stole what would have been a long look in camp with us. However, he has bounced back and really excelled in his return to action.”
Sklaruk continued.
“We really like his size and demeanour on the ice. He makes smart plays with the puck, is rock solid on defense with a confidence to make a great first pass. He is a stable, reliable and hard-nosed defender. You could liken his game to that of a Ryan Harker mold, extremely valuable in our opinion.” Finished Sklaruk.
Due to the Saints continued onslaught of injuries on the back end, the Edmonton native has suited up in 3 AJHL games as an affiliated player with the Saints this season. With no points, or penalty minutes to his credit, that necessarily isn’t a bad thing in the eyes of head coach Bram Stephen.
“Zach is a very smooth and cerebral defenseman, when called upon he has jumped right into our line up and played significant unsheltered minutes. He acquitted himself extremely well by relying on his intuitiveness to make smart plays and keep himself out of situations where he might need to take a player down or commit costly errors. He has been unnoticeably noticeable, I have been very impressed so far.”
Standing 6’1” and 185 lbs. Douglas has the physical tools to succeed, while putting in the necessary work on and off ice to succeed.
“Zach is a student of the game and very committed to maintaining a high level of physical fitness. He possesses a smart hockey mind and is receptive to what is put in front of him by way of video and team systems. Our coaching staff looks forward to Zach being part of our program and continuing his progression as an individual.” Remarked Coach Stephen.
The Saints would like to welcome Zachary and the Douglas family to the Saints.
Playoff packages go on sale this Friday, February 8th when the Saints host the North Division leader Bonnyville Pontiacs at 7 pm.
Single Game Tickets can be purchased online at tickets.sprucegrovesaints.ca