BACK-TO-BACK 20-GOAL SCORER & GOJHL CHAMPION READY TO BOOST ALBERNI VALLEY OFFENCE
Port Alberni, BC – The Alberni Valley Bulldogs have added a key offensive piece for the 2018/19 season, acquiring 1999-born forward Mitch Deelstra from the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League’s Listowel Cyclones.
Deelstra hails from Wallace, ON and spent the past two seasons with the Cyclones, most recently scoring 20 goals and totaling 40 points in 44 regular season games. He went on to add six goals and five assists in 19 playoff contests as Listowel captured the Sutherland Cup as GOJHL champions in May.
“Mitch is a skilled offensive player coming off an excellent season playing for the top team in the GOJHL,” says Bulldogs head coach Matt Hughes. “He has a real knack for finding the back of the net and making plays in transition and in the offensive zone. I had an opportunity to see Mitch up close during Listowel’s playoff run and I’m confident his game will translate well to the style of play in the BCHL. We’re excited to add a veteran player who we believe can make an immediate impact to our line-up.”
Deelstra began his junior hockey career as a 16-year old with the Wingham Ironmen of the WOJHL, netting 22 goals and 42 points in 41 regular season and playoff games. He then joined the Cyclones, where he totaled 50 goals and 95 points in 131 games.
“I’m excited to join the Bulldogs because I think this is a great next step in my junior hockey career,” says Deestra, who describes himself as a gritty, exciting player. “I believe I’m stepping into a great team and organization with a great staff. My personal goal for next season is to obtain an NCAA Division I scholarship, and as a team I’m hoping to help build on last season and ultimately win a championship.”
Deelstra will join the Bulldogs when training camp opens in August.
***
For more information, please contact:
Matt Hughes
Head Coach/GM
(250) 723-4412
matt@albernivalleybulldogs.ca
