SFU adds to blueline with commitment from Alberni Valley defender Savage

Simon Fraser University is proud to announce the first recruit signing for the 2017/18 season, defenceman Paul Savage.

The native of Surrey, BC brings over 131 games of Junior A experience to the Clan after splitting the majority of his time in junior with the Yorkton Terriers of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League and the Alberni Valley Bulldogs of the BCHL.

He joins SFU after completing his 20-year old old season in the BCHL with the Alberni Valley Bulldogs and his coach Kevin Willison expects good things for Savage with SFU.

“Last season Paul was an assistant captain for us and is the type of player that always puts the team first," says Willison. "SFU should be thrilled to have him in their line-up next season and he'll excel at the college level as he is a dedicated student-athlete.”

Savage will be reuniting with SFU assistant coach Tom Spencer, who coached Paul for two seasons of Major Midget with the Valley West Hawks.

“I'm very excited to get a player like Paul into our program,” said Spencer. “Paul brings lots of leadership and experience from his time with Yorkton and Port Alberni. Not only will Paul fit on the ice, his leadership and calm demeanor will be tremendous in our dressing room.”

The Clan, who allowed just 50 goals against in 24 regular season games will be adding a defensibly responsible player who can be counted on to block shots and play a physical game. Paul has also shown an ability to play up and down the line-up no matter what role is asked of him.

When asked what he hoped to accomplish this year Savage answered, “My goal is to have a great season and win SFU a championship."

Paul's commitment kicks off what will be a very important off-season for SFU following a season where they finished first in the regular season with 18 wins in 24 games before falling in the BCIHL Semi-Finals to the eventual champions University of Victoria Vikes.

Watch the Announcement Video.