Import goalie Gordichuk signs for 2019

The Agile Group Adelaide Adrenaline have signed a US collegiate national champion goaltender for the 2019 season.

Jesse Gordicuk arrived from Canada today and is expected to start this weekend in Melbourne.

The 24-year-old net minder just finished a four year college hockey career across three schools. From 2015-16 he played with University of Wisconsin Point Stevens where he was part of the 2016 NCAA III National Championship winning team - one of the top trophies in international collegiate hockey.

He then had a season with Alabama and Las Vegas. 

Notably, Gordichuk played in Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL) - the same competition as players like 2016 AIHL leading scorer Connor McLaughlin. In 2013-14 he won the AJHL Goaltender of the Year and led the league in goals against average and save percentage. 

"He's got some great experience and he's apparently a great guy to have in the room," says head coach Jim Fuyarchuk. 

Even though the Adrenaline have signed an import goalie, you can expect to see talented young local goaltenders Glen Forbes-White and Jeremy Friederich get an opportunity at an AIHL-level this year. 

Jim Fuyarchuk says bringing in an import goalie is part of a plan to phase in local goalies.  

"Jesse is known to be an excellent and I have no doubt he will work well with Glen and Jeremy," says Fuyarchuk. "Jesse understands that we want to get Glen and Jeremy into AIHL games to help with their development. He is expected to push Glen and Jeremy to become more game prepared - which is all part of the future plan."

By all reports, Gordichuk is an excellent teammate and will help develop the culture in Adelaide. On the ice, he looks quick, acrobatic, with a sharp glove hand. 

You can check out some of his highlights here:

 

Gordichuk says he's looking forward to working with Adelaide's emerging generation of goalies.

"It's something I take great pride in doing. Any possible way I am able to help young goalies develop their skills and love for the game is a privilege," he says.

In addition, Jesse, Glen, & Jeremy will spend time with some of South Australia's younger local goaltenders to help their development.

"We expect them to hold on-ice clinics, as well attend some training sessions to work with the younger goaltenders," says coach Jim. 

Adelaide goalie Glen Forbes-White says he's looking forward to expanding his skillset and learning from a goalie like Jesse.

"I'm ready to go whenever I'm called upon. I've been working on a few thinks and evaluating kinks. I'll keep working hard and I'm ready when needed," he says.

Gordichuk says he decided to come to Australia to continue playing hockey in the North American off-season and have the opportunity to explore another part of the world.

"Coming to Adelaide was an easy decision. Coach Jim was straight up with me with the expectations, answered all the questions I threw his way and the quick responses from the club made it easier too," he says. "I look forward to meeting everyone."

Fuyurchuk says the team has added a solid character guy. 

"He's clearly a team first player. He's going to fit into the dressing room well. His work ethic will be contagious, and will challenge our players at training to become better shooters," he says. 

The Adrenaline allowed the most shots in the AIHL last season and will be looking for a solid defensive effort, coupled with great goaltending, to keep them in the games.

The team opens their 2019 AIHL season on the road vs. the Melbourne Ice.

The team then returns home for an April 27 clash with the CBR Brave.

QUICK SHOTS WITH JESSE GORDICUK

Favourite pre-game meal? -  Chicken and Pasta

Favourite band or musician? -  I don't really have any favouite, I kind of just listen to whatever, depending on how I feel that day, I just pick something that fits my mood and vibe with it.

Favourite city in the world? -  Miami

Favourite hockey team? -  Las Vegas Golden Knights

Who was your first favourite hockey player? -  Carey Price

Who do you think will win the Stanley Cup? -  Tampa Bay (asked before the playoffs!) 

What is the best meal you can cook? - I'm not too sure but I really enjoy cooking and trying different things all the time!