OGDEN, UT. – The Ogden Mustangs, proud members of the United States Premier Hockey League, are excited to announce the signing of Michael Heller for the 2021-22 season.
Heller (Mohrsville, PA) joined the Mustangs in early October and caught fire immediately. His two-goal performance in his debut earned him player of the week honors and never looked back. The Pennsylvania joined Ogden after a stint with the St. Cloud Blizzard of the NAHL and is now back for his second season in the blue and red.
"I had loads of fun during my first year in Ogden. There is no better place to finish playing my last junior season. Being a Mustang last year helped me focus on becoming better and better everyday."
With 11 goals and 22 assists in 43 games played, Heller finished the season T-4th in scoring with fellow defenseman Deven Boldway. His 11 goals were the most by any defenseman in the Mountain Division during the 2020-21 campaign. He was the first Mustang ever selected as player of the week in the USPHL Premier: West Region and also earned player of the month honors in mid-January. Heller's reliable blue-collar work ethic will help push the younger players joining the team next season.
"I hope to lead with the other older guys on the team. We want to maintain that consistency and focus during games and in practice. Leading by example and playing every game like it’s your last."
For Head Coach Kenny Orlando and Assistant Coach Nick Dreyer (Defensive coach), Heller's return provides a huge boost to the defensive core and for the team as a whole with his two-way prowess on the ice.
“Michael was a great addition for the Mustangs last season. His ability to defend, combined with his knowledge of when to jump into the play, make him an asset in all three zones. With Heller's experience in the NAHL and with the Mustangs last season, we see him thriving in the Ogden environment once again for the 2021-2022 season. He will be a defensive backbone for us throughout the year and we are thrilled to have him back."
Heller has a big season ahead of him with college in his sights following this season. With 21-22 being his final year of eligibility, he wants to go out on top and is doing everything he can to be best prepared for that.
"This Summer, I'm working my hardest in the gym and on the ice to improve and be ready for this coming season. Winning [USPHL Premier] Nationals this year with the guys is the expectation."
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