(Spruce Grove, AB) – General Manager Rob Sklaruk announced that the Saints have acquired 1999 born defenseman Olson Werenka from the Merritt Centennials in exchange for a player development fee.
Werenka joins the Saints after spending over a season and half in the BCHL with Merritt and the Salmon Arm Silverbacks (18-19 ). In 31 games with Merritt this season, the Calgary, Alberta native has registered 3 goals, 14 assists and 107 penalty minutes.
In 85 games of BCHL hockey, which includes a brief 4 game stint with the Trail Smoke Eaters (17-18), the 6?2? ft. 205 lbs. left shooting defenseman has logged 9 goals, 28 assists and 217 penalty minutes.
General Manager Sklaruk was asked about what Saints fans can expect from the the incoming rear guard.
?Olson is a hard nosed, veteran defenseman who adds size and experience to our back end. He skates very well for a big man and we think he will step into our line up and make it very tough on opposing players night in and night out.? Exclaimed Sklaruk.
Werenka is no stranger to the AJHL and more notably the Viterra North Division after skating in his rookie season with the Bonnyville Pontiacs in 2017-18. In 41 contests, the rugged defenseman compiled 5 goals and 11 assists accompanied by 226 penalty minutes.
?His (Werenka) physical play is also complimented with good offensive abilities, which makes him a valuable piece to add. As the season move closer too and into the playoffs the games get tougher and more physical. It becomes a man?s game and once our fans and players see Olson, they will see he is built for playoff hockey.? Finished Sklaruk.
Werenka is expected to meet the team Friday January, 10th in Okotoks when the Saints take on the Oilers at 7 pm.
Saints fans can catch Olson on home ice for the first time Sunday, January 12th when the Bonnyville Pontiacs come to town for a 2 pm game followed by a post game public skate with the players.
You can pre-purchase your tickets online for Sunday?s and all Saints games at tickets.sprucegrovesaints.ca
The Saints organization would like to welcome Olson and his family to the team.