The Alberni Valley Bulldogs received the news on Saturday that they had been waiting for since the off-season began. Goaltender Hobie Hedquist announced to the club that he would be returning to the Bulldogs and the BCHL for the 2022-2023 season.
Hedquist, a commit of the North Dakota Fighting Hawks made his Bulldogs debut last season and earned the admiration of the fans, and more importantly the trust of head coach and general Joe Martin. Hedquist would appear in 42 regular season games for the Bulldogs and added 10 more to his resume in the playoffs. Hedquist played more minutes than any other goaltender in the BCHL and was named a 2nd team all-star as well as a finalist for goaltender of the year.
Hedquist was drafted in the 1st Round of the USHL Draft and it was evident that people had taken notice of his first season in the BCHL.
After deliberation with family, and discussions with North Dakota, Hedquist made the decision to return to the Bulldogs for next season. “I’m excited to have the opportunity to play for such a great organization again this season” said Hedquist. “This past year we were able to have an extremely successful year, and I can’t wait to get back in Port Alberni and continue what we built last year.”
Club president David Michaud was obviously thrilled by the news. “Having Hobie back means a lot to our organization. He was a highly sought after goaltender this off-season and for him to choose the Bulldogs and the community of Port Alberni is tremendous for all involved. Whenever you can bring back your MVP, especially in a position like goalie, it adds a layer of stability that makes you feel like you have a chance each and every night to win the game. I hope our fans are as excited as we are to have Hobie back in the fold.”
Hedquist was 28-9-4-0 during the 21-22 season, he also notched 5 shutouts in his rookie season. Hedquist strung together a stretch of 3 consecutive shutouts at one point, a run that threatened the BCHL record of the most minutes without allowing a goal.
Hedquist and the rest of the Bulldogs will arrive in Port Alberni for training camp which opens September 2nd at the Multiplex.
