OGDEN, UT. – The Ogden Mustangs, proud members of the United States Premier Hockey League, are excited to announce the signing of Andrew Alonzo for the 2021-22 season.
Alonzo (Bonney Lake, WA), one of the best all-around players to attend the Mustangs Tryouts this Summer, comes to Ogden after a long awaited recruiting journey to nab the heralded recruit from the Wenatchee Wolves program. His knack for the back of the net is premium among junior hockey and he is ready for the responsibility.
"I played for Mike Butters my U16 year and played really well and then made my way up to U18 in Wenatchee for Ryan McKelvie and had another strong year so I felt like I was ready for the next step so I thought junior was a good option. Kenny Orlando reached out to me at the USA hockey district tournament in Phoenix and we really hit it off and had an amazing connection right off the bat. Then when we decided to attend camp in Ogden, I was blown away by the facilities and the coaching staff. My family and I all felt like it was a dream fit for us."
Another North American Hockey League prospect, Alonzo checks in at 5-10, 180 lbs and turns heads when he is on the ice with his power and skill with the puck. An impressive campaign during the 2020-21 season saw him pot a team-leading 21 goals. He finished second in total points (40) in 35 games played. However, it's his ability as a dominant two-way player as well as being a goal-scorer that sets him apart. He also gets to join a team with familiar faces (Darrien Cathey and Luke Faas) and plenty of new teammates that look to impress from the opening face-off in early September.
"I was fortunate enough to meet two amazing guys [Cathey and Faas] in Wenatchee, and to live with one of them. We stayed in contact throughout the summer and playing together this coming season was always a topic we talked about. The opportunity in Ogden came up and we felt like it was too good to pass up. I’m super excited to get started with my new teammates and am itching to get started."
As we said, goal-scoring is a premium and you can never have enough of them. Fortunately for Head Coach Kenny Orlando, signing a player with the caliber of Alonzo can really push the needle for a team overall.
"Andrew has been a player we’ve had our eyes on for a while. He is a very powerful forward who will help dictate the play. He fits our forward group well as he is tough to play against and he limits opponents time and space quickly on pursuit for pucks. Andrew has a great character and work ethic which should help him excel at this level. "
While also making his junior career debut in little over a month, Alonzo looks to make a good impression and give a full effort night-in and night-out. No matter the player, each one agrees: Mustang fans are the best fans.
"I’m really looking forward to an amazing season in Ogden. I’m really excited about the opportunity to play in front of an amazing crowd and develop as a human and as a player. I want to bring a winning mindset and be playing meaningful hockey at the end of the season."
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