Mon Jun 22, 2009
Thunder Bay, Ont. - Lakehead Thunderwolves Hockey and head coach Joel Scherban are pleased to announce the commitment of standout two-way forward, Andrew Wilkins, (Pickering, Ont.) for the 2009-10 season.Wilkins, a 5-10, 170 pound athlete, joins the Wolves roster following a four-year OHL career that included three full seasons with the London Knights, and one year with the Owen Sound Attack.
Originally a defenceman, Wilkins was shifted to forward while with the Knights. His offensive numbers improved during every season of his Major Junior career.
A right-hand shot, Wilkins enjoyed deep playoff runs with the Knights in 2006 and 2007. He is known as one of the best defensive forwards in the OHL, being named best defensive forward and hardest worker on his 2007-08 Knights team. Wilkins was also recognized, in 07-08, as one of the OHL Western Conferences top three defensive forwards in the annual OHL coaches poll.
Wilkins ended his OHL career with a breakout offensive year with the Attack, posting 17 goals and 37 assists for 54 points in 65 games.
Wilkins says several factors contributed to his decision to compete and study at Lakehead.
I am very excited to play for a school that accepts nothing less than winning a National Championship," he explains. "Great fan support, one of the best rinks in the CIS, the campus, and the City of Thunder Bay are all reasons why I committed to Lakehead.
The forward should feel right at home, saying that Wolves athletes Jordan C. Smith and Shandor Alphonso gave him a taste of the teams unity and competitive edge during his recruiting visit to Thunder Bay.
Coach Scherban commented on his new recruits on-ice abilities.
We are excited to welcome Andrew to the Lakehead University mens hockey program. Andrew is an extremely versatile player who began his career in the Ontario Hockey League playing defence before being moved to forward by London Knights coach Dale Hunter. Andrew has an exceptional work ethic and brings excellent leadership ability in addition to his on-ice skills.
Notes: Lakehead head coach Joel Scherban will be attending the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, beginning June 26 in Montreal.