Thunderwolves recruit Alberta Junior Hockey League's most outstanding defenceman

The Lakehead Thunderwolves have landed the Alberta Junior Hockey League’s most outstanding defenceman.

The OUA squad on Monday announced blue-liner Linden Springer, 20, has committed to play for the Thunder Bay school in 2015-16.
The Lloydminster, Alta. native spent parts of three seasons in the Western Hockey League, scoring three goals and three assists in 56 games with the Prince George Cougars in 2011-12.

Springer had 19 goals and 40 points last season, which he split between the Lloydminister Bobcats  and Brooks Bandits. With Bobcats he played with current Thunderwolves forward Austin McDonald.

"I couldn't be happier to announce my commitment to Lakehead University, and I’m grateful to be a Thunderwolf,” he said, in a release.

“ From what I’ve heard from coach (Bill) McDonald and my friends at Lakehead, it’s the top of the class. The atmosphere on campus and in the Fort William Gardens really excites me. To be able to play on a team of this calibre in front of great crowds is something I can’t wait to do."

Springer is the third player to commit to the Wolves, after defenceman Tyler Kunz and forward Sam Schutt.

“We've been following Linden’s progress for over a year now and we like his size, his skill, and the way he plays the game with intensity,” McDonald said. 

“He was voted the best defencemen in the AJHL, which is a great accomplishment, plus he’s also played a number of games in the WHL.  We think he can step right in and contribute immediately.”