Burls is on the move.
The Soo Thunderbirds have announced on Tuesday that they have traded 2002-birth-year defenceman Zane Burleigh to the Ontario Junior Hockey League’s Caledon Admirals in exchange for a player development fee.
Burleigh, who played one season with the Soo Thunderbirds during 2021-2022, scored once and set up 7 others in 46 regular season games.
The Barrie, Ontario native then had 1 goal and 5 helpers in 15 games during the 2022 postseason and helped the Thunderbirds win their 5th Copeland Cup McNamara Trophy in franchise history.
“Zane was a great addition to our championship team last season and we wish him all the best in his graduating season with Caledon.”
Next season in Caledon, Burleigh will also be playing on the same team as former Blind River Beavers forward Andrew Tsotsos, who was traded from Blind River to Caledon back on July 13.
“I’m really excited to start the next chapter of my junior hockey career in Caledon,” Burleigh said. “I’m pleased to have the opportunity to live at home in Barrie and play in a strong skilled league like the OJHL. First and foremost, I’d like to thank all of my teammates for the memories and bonds that will last a lifetime. I’d like to thank my billet family, the Nevers, who are the best billet family anyone could ever ask for, and I’d also like to thank the entire Soo Thunderbirds organization. Winning an NOJHL championship with the Thunderbirds is something I will never forget and I also want to say thank you, Sault Ste. Marie!”
(Photo of Soo Thunderbirds defenceman Zane Burleigh credit to Bob Davies)
