Saginaw Spirit Sign 2018 First Round Pick Cole Perfetti
June 14, 2018 - Ontario Hockey League (OHL)
Saginaw Spirit News Release
Saginaw, Michigan - The Saginaw Spirit announced Wednesday the signing of 2018 first round pick, fifth overall, Cole Perfetti to a Standard Player Agreement and Education Package.
"It's a big day for our organization as we announce the signing of Cole Perfetti, our first round pick in 2018. I am very excited to have Cole and his family here today and welcome the next wave of talent into our organization," said Spirit General Manager Dave Drinkill
Perfetti, 16, was drafted by the Saginaw Spirit in the first round, fifth overall in the 2018 OHL Under-17 Priority Selection Draft. The native of Whitby, Ontario led the entire Greater Toronto Hockey League in Goals (52), Assists (73), and Points (125) in 64 games during the 2017-18 season and is a top prospect eligible for the 2020 NHL Draft.
Perfetti was selected to compete in Hockey Canada's Under-17 Camp in Calgary in hopes of playing in the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge Nov. 3-10 in Saint John and Quispamsis, New Brunswick, Canada.
"We drafted Cole very high," continued Drinkill. "His talent and ability speaks for itself and to be able to have him commit to the community and what we are building here in Saginaw really means a lot to us and the ownership."
When asked about his game, Perfetto believes he is a skilled, offensive forward and compares his game to former Memorial Cup Champion and current Toronto Maple Leaf Mitch Marner.
"I feel I play similar to him," said Perfetti to the media inside The Dow Event Center on Wednesday. "Fast-paced, down low. Finding the open man and always making the right play."
Perfetti, who had other options to continue his hockey career, was sold on Saginaw immediately during his visit.
"When I came down for Rookie Camp, everyone was so welcoming. The players, the management group, and the community was just awesome," continued the Whitby, Ontario native. "Once I got to Saginaw, I can't imagine playing anywhere else."
Perfetti will join his new teammates during Training Camp with dates and location to be announced.
For tickets and more information:
Reserve your seat at The Dow Event Center by calling (989) 497-7747 or visit www.saginawspirit.com for more information. YOUR Region. YOUR team. YOU'RE invited.
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Ontario Hockey League Stories from June 14, 2018
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