Flames early wooing of Foo pays off in deal

CALGARY — Spencer Foo was “just another college invite” at the Calgary Flames summer development camp a year ago. Number of media interviews? “Zero.” The 23-year-old forward from Edmonton was certainly of interest a year later after choosing to sign a contract with the Flames. The coveted college free agent says the Flames took an interest in him before there was a hot market for his services.

His hometown Oilers with star Connor McDavid and their shiny new arena were also on Foo’s shortlist of possible destinations.

“When it comes down to it, the NHL’s a business,” Foo explained Tuesday during the Flames prospects’ physical testing in Calgary.

“It might be your favourite team growing up, but they don’t see you as that. You’re just another player for them. You really have to go where you’re wanted the most and where you think you’re going to have success.

“The biggest thing it came down to was where I felt wanted the most and where I felt like I could really fit in with the organization.

“I’ve been talking to Calgary since my freshmen year. Coming to camp here last year, that definitely helps too because I was able to see the type of people that were here.”

After 26 goals and 36 assists in 38 games for Union College this past season, the Hobey Baker finalist announced he would forego his senior year even though his brother Parker will play for the Dutchman as a freshman next season.