(Spruce Grove, AB) – The Spruce Grove Saints are proud to announce that 2002 born forward Liam Hughes has signed a letter of intent for the 2019-2020 season.
Hughes currently skates with the Canadian Athletic Club Canadians Midget AAA program in the Alberta Midget Hockey league (AMHL). In 28 games played, Hughes has registered 6 goals, 15 assists and 34 penalty minutes.
Saints Head Coach Bram Stephen gave his thoughts on his recent commit.
“Liam is a skilled forward with good size for his age. He is strong on the puck and the way that he creates offense will translate very well at the junior level. His reads on the ice tell us that he has a high hockey IQ, which is something we value highly.” Stephen continued.
“The style we play will compliment Liam’s skillset very well and lead to success for both the Saints and Liam. The coaching staff and I are thrilled with the opportunity to work with Liam to continue his development as a player to achieve his on and off-ice goals.”
The Saints hope they catch lightning in a bottle twice with the Hughes family as older brother Cameron suited up for the Saints while securing a scholarship to the University of Wisconsin. In 2 seasons with the Saints the elder Hughes notched 32 goals, 56 assists and an even 100 penalty minutes in 112 regular season games, capped off with an AJHL Championship in 2013-2014.
General Manager Rob Sklaruk appreciates hockey bloodlines and the influence they can have.
“Liam Hughes comes from a strong hockey family, by watching his brother, he understands what it takes to be a successful student athlete. His work ethic and commitment to detail is strong for a player of his age.” Sklaruk continued. “Our team believes that those assets, coupled with his offensive ability will lead to Liam being a successful junior A and college player. We are certainly looking forward to having Liam in our line up in the coming years.”
The Edmonton native has auditioned in 4 AJHL games as an affiliated player with the Saints this season. While not hitting the score sheet his play was noticeable to fans and coaches alike, making the decision easy for Saints brass to offer a spot to the 5’10” 165 lbs. winger.
“Liam continues to impress and improve as a player, both at midget and the Junior level. We feel Liam is just scratching the surface of his true potential and are excited to aid in his continued development.” Exclaimed Saints General Manager Rob Sklaruk.
The Saints would like to welcome Liam and the Hughes back to the Saints family.
Catch the current Saints at our next home game on February 8th when they host the Bonnyville Pontiacs at 7 pm. Tickets can be purchased online at tickets.sprucegrovesaints.ca