Saturday, April 23, 2011

WINTERHAWKS SIGN TOP PROSPECT

Press Release

The Portland Winterhawks have announced the signing of goaltender Brendan Burke, the team’s third round pick, 49th overall, in the 2010 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft.

Burke played this season with the Phoenix Junior Coyotes of the Midwest Elite Hockey League, going 9-10-3 with a goals against average of 3.39 and 86.2% save percentage. Burke also led his team to the championship game in the Rocky Mountain District tournament, featuring some of the top midget AAA teams from the western United States. Burke was 2-1 with one shutout, a goals against average of 1.97 and 93.0% save percentage.

Burke was also one of 40 players to participate in a tryout camp for the Under-17 U.S. National Development Team, but decided to sign with the Winterhawks.

“We drafted Brendan knowing he could be a big building block for our future,” said Portland Winterhawks General Manager and Head Coach Mike Johnston. “Much like Chase De Leo, Brendan had numerous options available to him, and we’re thrilled he’s chosen to join our organization.”

Burke is the son of former NHL goalie Sean Burke, who played 18 seasons in the NHL for eight teams, amassing a record of 324-341-101-9 with a career goals against average of 2.96 and 90.2% save percentage.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

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