Goaltender Patrick Sutherland Commits to Flint
Published on September 15, 2023 under Ontario Hockey League (OHL)
Flint Firebirds News Release
Flint, Mich. - The Flint Firebirds announced today that goaltender Patrick Sutherland has committed to an Ontario Hockey League standard player agreement with the club.
"We are excited to welcome Patrick to the Firebird family," General Manager Dave McParlan said. "He has put a lot of work into his development since we first saw him over a year ago, and that hard work has paid off."
Sutherland was selected in the 12th round (240th overall) of the 2022 OHL Priority Selection. The 6-foot-6, 212-pound netminder was selected by the Firebirds out of the U16 Toronto Titans in the Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL).
"I'm ecstatic," Sutherland said on officially signing. "I've been treated super well here (in Flint). It's all been great. I'd like to thank my parents for taking the time to be as committed as I am. Trainers, coaches, and other family and friends have all helped make this possible."
The Nobleton, Ont.-native spent last season with U18 Ajax/Pickering Raiders where he produced a 1.76 GAA in 19 GP in the ETAHL. His GAA ranked sixth among all eligible goaltenders. He also went on to produce a 1.02 GAA to go along with two shutouts in the ETAHL U18 playoffs.
"I am a very technically sound goalie," Sutherland said about his game. "I like to get to the spots in time and I'd say I'm very controlling with the puck."
Sutherland now joins Edmonton Oilers draft pick Nathan Day and fellow 2022 OHL draftee Jacob Brown in the Firebirds' goaltending room. He will wear number 33 for Flint.
"I'm expecting to try and win games whenever I'm in the net," he added. "I want to be a team player and give my all for whatever is needed of me. I want to always give the fans a show."
Scouting Report from Head Scout Mike Oliverio: We like how Patrick's game has progressed over the last couple of years. He is just turning 17 and is starting to grow into his 6-foot-6 frame. Our staff feels he has good footwork and is good down low. He is a very technically sound goalie who competes well. Patrick has a lot of upside potential and has earned the right to vie for a spot."
The Flint Firebirds are now just two weeks away from the regular season! They return to action on Friday, September 29 at 7:07 p.m. against the Soo in the GFL Memorial Gardens and for the Home Opener against the Kitchener Rangers at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 30.
Great seats remain available for the 2023-24 season! Memberships will be available for purchase and new members can pick their seats during the event.
Season memberships remain on sale starting as low as $12 per game or $408 for the full season. More information on becoming a 2023-24 season membership holder can be found HERE.
The season opener is now only nine days away as the puck drops on Saturday, September 30th at 7:00 p.m. against the Kitchener Rangers. Single-game tickets are on sale NOW, available at Etix.com or in-person at the Dort Financial Center Box Office.
Additionally, Suite Rentals are available now for the home opener and Group Tickets can be pre-ordered by either calling the Dort Financial Center Box Office during regular business hours.
Continue to follow @FlintFirebirds on all social media channels to learn more about team movement, ticket sales, promotions, giveaways, and MORE ahead of the 2023-24 season.
Ontario Hockey League Stories from September 15, 2023
- Firebirds Name Brian Gardner Director of Communications and Play-By-Play Announcer - Flint Firebirds
- Dickinson, Parekh and Mews Included in TSN Analyst Bob McKenzie's Preseason Top-16 for the 2024 NHL Draft - Saginaw Spirit
- Goaltender Patrick Sutherland Commits to Flint - Flint Firebirds
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