(Spruce Grove, AB) ? The Spruce Grove Saints are proud to announce 2001 born forward Jacob Rochford has signed a letter of intent for the 2020-2021 season.
Rochford, pronounced (Rock-FORD), joins the Saints from the Komoka Kings of the GOJHL (Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League) which is one of the top Junior ?B? hockey leagues in Canada. The AJHL?s 2020 Rookie of the year (Brayden Krieger) was a product of the GOJHL before joining the Brooks Bandits last season.
Rochford, who hails from London, Ontario posted 24 goals, 32 assists and 80 penalty minutes in 49 games last season with his now former Komoka Kings team.
Saints General Manager Rob Sklaruk has a large recruiting class to fill this year which has pushed the scouting department to search for players across the North America. Rochford is a player Sklaruk feels will be able to step in and make an immediate impact.
?Jacob has all the tools to be a highly effective player in our league right away. He has good size and isn?t afraid to use it. He shows a willingness to go to the hard areas to score goals and has a knack around the net. He also possesses a great shot so he can score in a multitude of ways.? Sklaruk continued.
?Jacob is a gritty player with a strong work ethic. He fits the Saints mold and is a player that teammates will love to go to battle with. I see a lot of similarities between Jacob?s game and that of former Saint Brett Smythe. A very honest player that is going to give you his best every night and be counted on to provide offense and sound defensive play. We are thrilled for Jacob to join our team and want to welcome him and his family to the team.? Sklaruk concluded.
Listed at 6 ft. and 185 lbs. the recently turned 19 year-old drew high praise from Saints Assistant Coach Derrick Martin when he shared his scouting report on the newest Saint.
?Jacob is a prototypical power forward with a big body, strength and an innate scoring ability. He has a great shot and loves to play a physical game.? Martin explained.
?Saints fans can get excited about this player knowing that he is going to play 200 ft. hockey while making it difficult for opposing defenders and goaltenders with his willingness to play in the tough areas of the ice. Jacob has been on our radar for some time now and I am looking forward to getting the chance to work with him and watch him continue to develop.? Finished Martin.
Reached by phone for a short interview, Rochford touched on what type of player he is and why he chose the Saints.
?I?m a player who is good in the corners and loves to use my size to win battles but at the same time I have a good scoring touch and can help bring some offensive presence to the team.? Stated Rochford who then continued to speak of decision-making process.
?I chose Spruce Grove because the organization seemed very professional from the bottom up. After speaking with the coaches and GM I felt as if the Spruce Grove Saints are going to give me the best opportunity to develop as a person and player. I?m super excited to get out to Spruce Grove and start the season.? Rochford finished.
The Saints organization would like to welcome Jacob and the Rochford family to the team.
Early Bird Season tickets are available for sale online at tickets.sprucegrove.ca ? Enjoy Saints hockey all year by securing your seats now at the lowest prices you?ll get all year!