The Eagle Sky Estevan Bruins made a splash between the pipes ahead of the SJHL’s December Trade Freeze this week, announcing the acquisition of 19-year-old goaltender, Zach Shaughnessy from the Delta Ice Hawks of BC’s Pacific Junior Hockey League in exchange for a Player Development Fee.
Standing tall at 6-foot-2, 174 pounds, Shaughnessy is coming off an accomplished last three seasons with the Ice Hawks which saw the native of Surrey, BC., backstop the team to a 53-12-1 record in 69 games, while posting a 2.37 goals against average and .915 save percentage.
Even more impressive has been Shaughnessy’s play in the biggest moments, posting a 10-5-1 record in 18 career PIJHL playoff games, along with a sterling 2.28 goals against average and .918 save percentage in the postseason. This included a dominant run backstopping the Hawks to a PIJHL championship in 2023, while posting an eye-popping 1.49 goals against average and .940 save percentage through eight playoff games en route to the title.
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Head coach and general manager of the Bruins, Jason Tatarnic said the 19-year-old’s consistent play on the west coast should indicate a bright SJHL future.
“Zach has been playing very well this season and we feel he is ready for the SJHL,” Tatarnic said. “Statistically he’s been consistent with his numbers and we’re looking forward to his [debut]. We want to thank Jacob Morris for helping us out as an affiliated player the past two weeks and he’s a goalie we will continue to monitor and use when needed.”
Shaughnessy, who arrived in Estevan over the weekend, will offer some relief for first-year workhorse, Ben Polhill – who has made the Bruins’ last 10 starts since Kyle Kelsey’s exodus to the BCHL. He said he’s looking forward to getting started.
“The boys are great, skating with them I love the practices; it’s intense, and it’s been fun to be a part of,” Shaughnessy said flashing a smile.
The Bruins’ new netminder could make his SJHL debut as early as this weekend when the team returns to play for a home-and-home against the division-rival, Melville Millionaires. Friday’s game will be played at Affinity Place, with Saturday’s at Melville’s CN Community Centre. Both will be available on FloHockey and on the Bruins’ Official YouTube Livestream, with the Room By Room Pregame Show starting at 6:45 p.m. and puck drop to follow at 7 p.m.
For tickets to Friday’s game, click here.
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Marty Martinson/Estevan Bruins’ PxP & Marketing Director
On X: @MartyMartyPxP1
