Saturday, January 5, 2013

SEA DOGS TRADE MACAULAY BACK HOME

Press Release

SAINT JOHN – The Saint John Sea Dogs announced today that five-year Sea Dogs veteran and over-ager Stephen MacAulay has been traded to the Halifax Mooseheads.

“Stephen MacAulay has represented the Sea Dogs organization on the ice, the very same way he handles himself off the ice,” says Sea Dogs head coach and General Manager Mike Kelly. “His selfless nature, commitment to others and willingness to do anything required of him as long as it is in the best interest of the team, seems to be instinctive.”

In return, Saint John receives a 2013 4th-round Quebec Major Junior Hockey League draft choice and a 2014 2nd-rounder from Halifax.

For a glimpse into MacAulay’s highlights with the Sea Dogs, visit Sea Dogs TV, the team’s official YouTube channel.

MacAulay was drafted in the third round, 52nd overall, in the 2008 QMJHL entry draft by the Sea Dogs, and has spent his entire junior career with the club.

The Cole Harbour, NS native was a versatile, two-way forward who has played in every situation, including one or two shifts on defence when needed. The 6-foot-2, 185-pound MacAulay has given the Sea Dogs steady production, while setting career marks already this season. His 18 goals and 36 points are personal bests and is two helpers shy of another personal record.

MacAulay has worn the “A” on his jersey in each of his games, only missing those while away at the Hamilton Bulldogs American Hockey League training camp. MacAulay, along with Kevin Gagné, played well enough to be offered 25-game professional tryout agreements, which they turned down to return to junior.

In 255 career QMJHL games, MacAulay tallied 58 goals and 71 assists for 129 points.

“Everything he gave our organization over the past 3 ½ years is something that will always be appreciated,” Kelly says. “We know Stephen has a bright future ahead of him and we will certainly miss both him and his family as we have shared some memorable experiences. We wish Stephen and his family all the best in the future.”

 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

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