Wheatley Sharks Sign Underager Nolan Gardiner
Nolan Gardiner (14 White) battles with a Blenheim Blades player in preseason action – Photo by Kelsey Vermeersch/ CKSN.ca
Gardiner spent last season with the Chatham-Kent Cyclones Minor Midget ‘AAA’ team, before being drafted in the 11th round, 203rd overall by the OHL’s Ottawa 67s in the 2014 OHL Priority Selection Draft.
“We feel that Nolan has the skill set to be an offensive threat, once he makes the adjustments to the JR. level,” says Wheatley Sharks General Manager Kevin Fisher of the signing.
“Having said that we also feel he has the mindset to make the adjustment fairly quickly. We fully expect him to have a successful rookie campaign.”
“tt feels really great to sign, I’m looking forward to a great season,” said Gardiner about landing with the Wheatley Sharks. “This season I hope to improve my quick feet and continue to get stronger so that I can achieve my goal of playing in the OHL.”
Gardiner, a physical player, had 12 points for the Cyclones in the regular season, before scoring 3 goals and adding 12 assists for the Cyclones in 18 playoff games. After having his postseason cut short with a broken leg, Gardiner spent the offseason recovering, and is ready to step into the Sharks lineup.
Gardiner adds to a growing list of players from the 1998 Chatham-Kent Cyclones to sign with Junior clubs this offseason. His former teammares, Brady Pataki,
Any team should be proud to have Nolan play with him. I saw firsthand some of the determination and commitment he applied during his recovery. Dreamers need both the will and tools and be able to apply them to achieve in their goals. Notan has that in spades!
I completely agree with you Kathy. Nolan is known as a hard worker. I have to think he’s positioned well to have a good season and continue to move up toward his hockey goals. And to come back from his injury, and snap up a coveted Junior spot is a testament to his dedication.
He’s definitely a hockey prospect we’ll be featuring and covering more this season.