FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Saturday, June 23rd
LALEGGIA DRAFTED BY OILERS
PENTICTON, BC– Former Penticton Vees defenseman and current Denver Pioneer, Joey Laleggia was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers, 123rd overall, in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft Saturday.
Laleggia was the second pick in the fifth round and was one of six current and former BCHL players taken in the draft.
The Burnaby native just completed his freshman season at the University of Denver and it was one to remember. Laleggia amassed 11 goals and 38 points in 43 games, on his way to being named the WHCA & NCAA Division l Rookie of the Year. Laleggia finished third in scoring by defensemen and second amongst freshman in the WCHA.
Vees Head Coach & GM Fred Harbinson says Laleggia being drafted is a reflection of his dedication to the game. “Joey being drafted today shows his perseverance and determination in hockey. Joey has found ways to excel at every level he’s played at and has proven he is an elite athlete. I’m proud of what he’s been able to accomplish and overcome.Joey is a special talent, there's no question of that, but he's a great young man as well.”
In 114 career games with the Vees, Laleggia amassed 33 goals and 147 points including 82 points in his final season in 2011. That year Laleggia was named the Interior Conference Defenseman of the Year and MVP along with being a BCHL All-Star. In two years of junior hockey Laleggia was twice a member of Team Canada West in the World Jr. ‘A’ Challenge, winning a silver medal in 2009.
Including Laleggia, 15 NHL draft picks have now played for the Vees in the past five years. The entire Vees organization congratulates Laleggia and his family on becoming an Edmonton Oiler and wishes him the best of luck in his future endeavors with the Oilers organization.
CONTACT: FRASER RODGERS
Director of Broadcasting & Media Relations
Penticton Vees Hockey Club
(250) 809-1390
