Former St. Louis Jr. Blues defenseman Ryan Trenz was taken in the first round (7th overall) by the Chicago Steel in the United States Hockey League draft today. Trenz spent the 2010-11 season playing for the Michigan Warriors of the North American Hockey League where he was named to the All-Rookie Team. Ryan, a 91 birthyear tallied 8 goals and 25 points in 56 regular season games and was instrumental in the Warriors playoff run where they reached the finals of the Robertson Cup. Prior to his NAHL career, Trenz spent 2 seasons with the St. Louis Jr. Blues and scored one of the team's biggest goals to help capture the Jr. Blues' first Tier III Jr. A National Championship. Before junior hockey Trenz grew up playing hockey in the Affton Americans CSDHL program and was a member of several Mid-States High School championships at Christian Brothers College High School.
Jr. Blues Head Coach J.P. Beilsten had this to say about Trenz, "I got to see Ryan last year for the first time when I coached the defense. His poise with the puck, vision on the ice and shot were incredible. He was the anchor on defense and a big reason for our National Championship last year. Chicago is getting an outstanding player and person."
Jr. Blues assistant coach Mike Hazelton added, "Ryan is a special player. I didn't get the chance to work with him last year, but was here is rookie year. That year he was a forward but late in the season we toyed with the idea of moving him back to defense late in the season. I think that experience at both positions is what helped him develop his vision and puck handling skills. Last year he proved he is as good of a two-way defenseman as anyone."
According to the Steel's website:
With the 7th Overall pick in the draft (pick acquired in trade with Sioux City), the Steel have selected Defenseman Ryan Trenz. Ryan is a 6'0, 180lbs, 91 birth year defenseman who played played for the Michigan Warriors of the NAHL last season. In 56 games for the warriors Ryan had 8 goals, 17 assists for 25 points and was a +20.
The Scouting Report: Ryan is a mobile and intelligent two-way defenseman that will help our transition game and powerplay. He exudes leadership, is a great skater and is a skilled puck-mover. He's an instinctive defender with an active stick and he battles hard.
