The Olds Grizzlys have signed yet another championship winning player from Red Deer Optimist Chiefs. Forward Chris Gerrie has signed on with the Grizz for the upcoming 2013-2014 season. Gerrie was instrumental for Red Deer in the Telus Cup scoring 9 points in 7 games. Gerrie returned from injury on fire, the 5’10 170lb forward had 8 points in 14 games during their playoff run.
Grizzlys Head Coach Brett is pleased with the key acquisition, “Gerrie is a smaller skilled player who has worked extremely hard this past year on his defensive game. With the loss of key 20 year olds who were in our top 6 forward positions, we expect Gerrie to fill one of those positions. He has won and that is very important to us going forward.” Stated Hopfe
The Grizz are in the midst of a positive and dynamic transformation, having now added 3 former Red Deer AAA players in the last 2 years and coach Hopfe says they may not be done.
“Over the past year we have been making moves based on trying to change our team culture. With the addition of Duffin last year and Gorgi and Gerrie this year, we have added great character players with a winning background. The Red Deer coaching staff (Doug Quinn, Rob Hamill, and Al Parada) has done a tremendous job developing these players into team first guys who will do whatever it takes to win. We are very lucky to have the ability to be so close to Red Deer to watch these players. We have identified quite a few players who have played in Red Deer over the last couple of seasons who we feel would fit into roles we are looking for in our roster.” Said Hopfe
If there are any further questions, please direct them to Head Coach Brett Hopfe
Brett Hopfe
Olds Grizzlys
403.507.9356