Joey Payeur
One of the more unsung heroes of the Fort Frances Lakers’ championship run last year will be back this fall.
Forward Julian Uhryniuk announced his intention yesterday to return to the fold for the three-time defending Bill Salonen Cup titleholders for his second SIJHL season.
“Julian improved immensely last season for our hockey team mainly playing in a depth role,” said Lakers general manager and head coach Wayne Strachan in an e-mail statement.
“He is a player that we used in many roles last year and will be expected to build off his rookie season and become a leader on our hockey team.”
Uhryniuk, a 19-year-old out of East St. Paul, Man., spent two years with the Winnipeg Thrashers of the Manitoba ‘AAA’ Midget Hockey League before coming to the Lakers last season.
In 52 regular-season games with the Fort, the speedy centre had 10 goals and 13 assists for 23 points, along with 38 penalty minutes.
He added one assist in 10 playoff games along with 10 penalty minutes.
The Lakers will hold their summer tryout camp from July 15-17 at Bronco Arena in International Falls.
