Fort McMurray, AB (October 19, 2017) – The Fort McMurray Oil Barons are excited to announce that 20-year-old goaltender Eric Szudor (Edmonton, AB) has committed to attend and play for the Univsersity of Alaska Anchorage Seawolves (NCAA Division I), starting next season.
In 72 career games over three seasons with the Oil Barons, Eric has averaged a 2.61 goals against average and .914 save percentage. He’s also compiled an impressive 7-0-1 record and one shutout to start this season, while averaging a 2.00 goals against average and .935 save percentage.
“Over the past couple of seasons, Eric has established himself as an elite goaltender in our league,” said Oil Barons Head Coach and General Manager Tom Keca. “His role on our team goes beyond statistics – he’s one of our leaders and veteran guys and gives us a chance to win every night.”
“As a coaching staff and organization, we couldn’t be happier for him and know he’ll continue his development and success at the next level with the Seawolves,” added Keca.
Szudor’s commitment to Alaska Anchorage also caps off an impressive 2016-17 AJHL campaign, where he compiled six shutouts and played an integral role in helping the Oil Barons capture a North Division regular season title and appearance in the North Division Final during the playoffs.
In addition to backstopping the Oil Barons to team success last season, Szudor’s personal success did not go unnoticed by his peers in the AJHL, as he was nominated as a finalist for the AJHL’s Top Goaltender Award. He was also named to the North Division’s All League Team, as one of the AJHL’s top goaltenders.
Szudor is the second Oil Baron to commit to a post-secondary institution for next season. In May, the team announced that Will Conley (Strathmore, AB) has committed to attend and play for the Holy Cross Crusaders (NCAA Division I).