(Spruce Grove, AB) – The Spruce Grove Saints are proud to announce 2002 born defenceman Ethan Edwards has signed a letter of intent, committing to become a full time member of the Saints in the upcoming 2019-2020 season.
Edwards who hails from St.Albert, AB currently plays for the Northern Alberta Xtreme (NAX) Midget Prep team of the CSSHL (Canadian Sport School Hockey League). In 22 games with the Xtreme, Edwards has compiled 2 goals, 15 assists and 56 penalty minutes.
A seemingly undersized defenceman standing 5’8” tall, and 146 lbs, Edwards makes up for that by possessing elite level skating and awareness on the ice.
Saints General Manager Rob Sklaruk spoke of the newly recruited Edwards.
“Securing Ethan to be part of the Saints future was imperative in our minds. He was the last cut on our team coming out of training camp and made it extremely difficult on us to make that decision.”
Sklaruk continued. “Ultimately in discussing with his family we felt it was best for his long term development to go back to such a great developmental program at NAX to hone is skills, gain strength and play in all key situations before making the jump to the Saints.”
That decision seems to have paid off, as early this fall Edwards committed to university hockey powerhouse, The University of Michigan. Set to become a Wolverine in the 2021-2022 season, Edwards has a bright future on his horizon.
Head Coach Bram Stephen on adding another high-end recruit to what is sure to be another strong Saints team next season.
“Ethan Edwards is the exact type of person and player we covet. His hockey IQ and skating ability is off the charts. The fact that he is a fierce competitor and quality person, it makes him a special player. As a coaching staff we are excited to continue to have Eddy (Edwards) around.”
Due to injuries on the Saints defence and Edwards continued progression, he has already suited up in 10 games this season for the Saints. In those 10 AJHL contests he logged 1 assist and 6 pims, however the chances he created, coupled with excellent defending, it is clear to see he will be an impactful Junior A player right away.
“The Saints organization are thrilled Ethan has chosen our program to continue his development and want to welcome he and his family to the team.” Finished GM Sklaruk.
Catch the current Saints at our next home game on January 23rd when they host the Drumheller Dragons at 7 pm. Tickets can be purchased online at tickets.sprucegrovesaints.ca