Trentham Commits to NAIT Ooks

The Spruce Grove Saints are proud to announce that 20 year-old forward and Team Captain Brett Trentham has committed to the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) Ooks for the upcoming 2020-2021 season. Trentham will suit up for the Ooks hockey program, located in Edmonton, who compete in the Alberta College Athletic Conference (ACAC).

The Three Hills, AB, native just completed a three-year AJHL career with the Saints, saving his best season for his last. Trentham came back this season to lead the Saints and wear the ?C? after recovering from post-concussion syndrome for most of the 2018-19 season.

Saints Head Coach Bram Stephen shared his thoughts and conveyed his admiration for the leadership Trentham has provided in his time with the team. 

?We are very happy that Brett will continue his studies and play for the Ooks. Brett displays fantastic leadership skills and understanding of what strong team culture is. He will be an invaluable player for NAIT.  Brett embodies a player who continues to want to grow on and off the ice, these qualities will make his journey moving forward exciting to watch,? Stephen stated.

In 55 games this season, Trentham compiled 9 goals and 15 assists accompanied with 51 pims. Trentham?s career AJHL numbers include 126 games played with 17 goals, 29 assists and 81 penalty minutes.

Saints General Manager Rob Sklaruk took time to speak about Brett?s new opportunity.

?Brett has done whatever has been asked of him on and off the ice, he bled Saints blue and yellow for the past three years,? noted Sklaruk. ?Brett has over come some significant injuries to get to this point today. First a broken leg, one that he played on in the 2018 AJHL finals versus Okotoks and then concussion related injuries last year. It was nice to see him get a full season under his belt to get this opportunity with a great program at NAIT. We thank Brett for all he has done for the Saints and wish him nothing but the best as he moves forward,? Sklaruk finished.

The 5?11?, 185 lbs forward saw his best statistical stretch of hockey at it?s toughest time when he notched 3 goals and 5 assists in 10 playoff games in the 2017-18 Playoffs on the Saints AJHL Championship run before going down with the previously mentioned broken leg in the AJHL finals.

The Saints captain chatted about his commitment and what made NAIT his team of choice.

?My decision to go to NAIT was a very easy one. Academically NAIT offered the program that I wanted to take.  Hockey wise, it was a no brainer as NAIT dominates the ACAC year after year, has a winning culture like the Saints do and they demand excellence everyday. I am very excited to be an Ook,? stated Trentham.

With a new door opening another must close and like those before him leaving the Saints brings back emotions, memories and gratitude which Trentham reflected on.

?First and foremost, I?d like to thank my family, teammates, coaches, and the city of Spruce Grove. Without them I wouldn?t be in the position I am today,? said Trentham.

?I will never forget my time with the Saints, I was able to learn many life lessons through hockey that I know will give me an advantage in life. I loved being able to put that jersey on and play for a legacy that was so much bigger than myself. I really can?t say enough about the Spruce Grove Saints, and what they mean to me.?

The Spruce Grove Saints would like to congratulate Brett and his family on his great achievement.