The Dragons have added depth in their net and the experience of an affiliate forward to the 2016/17 roster with the announcement Monday of dual signings.
Goaltender Hunter Virostek will make the move to Drumheller have been heavily scouted by the club at his post with the Midget AAA Bisons of Strathmore last season, posting a 2.37 GAA and an elite save percentage of .921 over 19 games.
“Hunter just came off a fantastic year with the CFR Bisons. I was at a couple of his games last year and was very impressed with him. He competes hard yet he is very calm, which is exactly what the coaching and scouting staff was looking for,” said head coach Brian Curran.
The Dragons got their man after extensive scouting of Virostek last year, and the 18-year-old from Nanton, AB was well aware he was in the team’s crosshairs.
“The Dragons have watched me play more times than any other team by a long shot and have always been open, honest, and very approachable. Drumheller’s ability to not take losing lightly is also a huge factor. Team toughness both mentally and physically is a huge appeal,” said Virostek.
Also announced Monday was the signing of returning affiliate player Joren Patenaude, who joins the Dragons from the Calgary Midget AA Buffaloes after posting 9 goals and 17 assists last year, while also contributing three goals and three assists playing 10 regular season games and four playoffs games for Drumheller.
“I chose Drumheller because it is a great hockey town with a devoted fan base that embraces and supports the team,” the 5’10, 170-lbs. Calgary native said. “Curran puts his players above all else and shows he is very passionate towards the Drumheller Dragons.”
“He was very successful in the games he played for us last season and will definitely contribute in all areas of the ice this season,” said Curran.
The Dragons hit the home ice for the first time this fall on September 9, when they take on Lloydminister in their first home exhibition game.