Blaze happy to sign flying forward Keck

COVENTRY Blaze have announced the signing of exciting young forward Tristan Keck for the upcoming Elite Series.

The 25-year-old will make his first step into professional hockey with the Blaze after graduating from the wellrespected University of Nebraska-omaha.

The 5’8 left-shooting forward spent his junior hockey career with Winkler Flyers in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, where he consistently scored more than a point-pergame during his four-year spell.

He was named MJHL Rookie of the Year in 2012/13, and won the same honour across the whole Canadian Junior Hockey League that same season.

After leading the MJHL in goals over 2014/2015, Keck was honoured with the MJHL’S Most Valuable Player award and was a finalist for the CJHL MVP trophy.

He was an MJHL All-star in three of his four seasons.

The Manitoba native’s NCAA debut came in 2016/17, scoring the game-winning goal against Alaska Anchorage. Over four years, in a high-quality NCHC Conference, Keck finished with 58 points (27 goals, 31 assists) from 127 games.

Keck, who is known for his speed and quick release, was named in the NCHC Academic All-conference Team during his spell at Nebraska-omaha, an accolade that recognises a players off-ice academic achievement.

Head Coach Danny Stewart said: “Keck will bring a load of energy to our line-up. He skates well, plays in all situations and plays with some grit.

“He’s played in arguably the best conference in NCAA hockey against guys going straight to the NHL.

“He’s produced there, and I don’t see any reason why he won’t transfer that to the pro game here in the UK.”

Keck said: “I am very excited to join the Coventry Blaze. I cannot wait to get back on the ice to start my pro journey by playing in the 2021 Elite Series.”

The Elite Series will be played throughout April, behind closed doors at the National Ice Centre in Nottingham.