MHKY: Kunz kicks off Thunderwolves recruiting campaign

The Lakehead Thunderwolves have plucked defenceman Tyler Kunz from Canada’s junior A ranks as their first off-season recruit this spring.

The Whitecourt, Alta. native spent parts of four seasons in the Alberta Junior Hockey League before finishing his junior career last season in the B.C. Junior Hockey League with  Prince George and West Kelowna.

The 20-year-old scored 15 goals and added 30 assists in 58 games split between three teams in 2014-15, which started in Lloydminster.

“I had the privilege to visit Thunder Bay a few weeks ago and was very excited once I got to see the campus and the city,” Kunz said in a release issued on Friday by the OUA team.

“I think it will be a great fit for me – both for my education and my hockey career, and I couldn't be more thrilled about the opportunities coming my way as a future member of the Thunderwolves.  It was a long road to get here, and I’d like to thank my parents, teammates, coaches and everyone else who helped me along the way.”

Lakehead coach Bill McDonald said landing Kunz was a good start to the recruiting season.

“We’re pleased to have Tyler join our defence corps for the upcoming season,” McDonald said.  “He’s not only an excellent defenceman and a complete player, but Tyler is also a quality individual.  I’m looking forward to have him play for us.".