Aces Acquire D Quinn Sproule from Idaho for Rights to Belzile

Published on October 15, 2014 under ECHL (ECHL)
Alaska Aces News Release


ANCHORAGE, Alaska - The Alaska Aces, the 2014 Kelly Cup champions and proud affiliate of the St. Louis Blues and Minnesota Wild of the National Hockey League, announced today that the team has acquired rookie defenseman Quinn Sproule (SPROOL) from the Idaho Steelheads in exchange for the rights to right wing Alex Belzile.

"Quinn brings a terrific set of elements that we're confident will fit our team identity," said Aces head coach Rob Murray. "We're excited about his skating ability and how his development progressed at UAA under current head coach Matt Thomas. It's an acquisition that makes sense and addresses our need for depth on the blueline."

Sproule, 24, skated in 138 career games for the University of Alaska-Anchorage (NCAA) in the last four seasons, collecting 25 points (5g-20a) and 89 penalty minutes. His career-high totals came as a 2011-12 sophomore when he earned 10 points (3g-7a) and seven assists, standing as the only Seawolf to suit up in all 36 games.

The Hussar, Alberta native was one of six players in the program last season to dress in all 38 games and he earned four assists while helping guide UAA to their third WCHA Final Five appearance in program history, and the second in his career.

Sproule originally agreed to terms with the Steelheads on July 3, 2014.

Belzile, 23, helped guide the Aces to their third Kelly Cup title last season and collected 12 points in 16 games. He added 10 points (3g-7a) in 18 postseason games and was acquired by the Aces on Feb. 28, 2014 from the Gwinnett Gladiators in exchange for the rights to goaltender Mark Guggenberger.

Sproule is the fifth player on the Aces roster with playing experience at UAA, along with Justin Johnson, Tyler Currier, Brad Gorham and Dustin Molle.

Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 17 at Sullivan Arena against the Ontario Reign at 7:15 p.m. (GCI/KFQD), when the Aces will unveil their third Kelly Cup championship banner.

Season ticket and sponsorship packages are currently available through the Aces office at 15th & Gambell. For more information, please call the Aces at 907.258.ACES or visit them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/alaskaaceshockey or visit them on Twitter, @AlaskaAces.



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