Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Firebirds 18U forward Majul signs NAHL tender

Press Release

The Phoenix Firebirds of the North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL) have announced that 18U forward Hector Majul has signed an NAHL tender with the Minot Minotauros.  The Minotauros are members of the NAHL’s Central Division.

Majul, 18, is in his second season with the Firebirds 18U squad.  In 22 NAPHL regular season games this season he registered 19 points (10 goals, 9 assists), including two game-winning goals.  His 19 points led the team in scoring as Phoenix finished the season with a 10-10-2 record.  In the consolation playoffs, he was second on the team in scoring with four points in four games.

Majul’s story of coming to the Firebirds and playing in the NAPHL is an interesting and intriguing one.  Just over six years ago, Majul was living and playing hockey in Mexico City, Mexico when he was noticed and had the opportunity to come to the United States and take his game to the next level. 

“Very few people know that Hector is actually a world-class soccer player for his age,” said Phoenix 18U head coach Todd Collins.  “He could easily get a scholarship to play college soccer, but his first love is hockey.  Since coming to play for us four years ago, his improvement level is off the charts.  I think his hand/eye coordination in soccer has benefitted his game on the ice because he has great hands and a natural scoring touch.  He just understands how to see and get around on the rink.”

However, it is Majul’s speed and ability to find the back of the net that caught the eye of junior scouts.  “I think the thing that stands out most is his speed.  He is a world-class skater,” said Collins.  “He has worked very hard over the last couple of seasons to develop that speed an turn it into scoring chances.”

His performance last season earned him a tender from the NAHL’s Texas Tornado and this season from the Minot Minotauros.

Majul also recently led the Firebirds to the Arizona State 18U Championship title with a win over the Phoenix Jr. Coyotes.

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

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