Chatham Maroons announce affiliation with Saginaw Spirit

The Chatham Maroons have forged a new partnership to help its players aim for the next level in hockey.

The local GOJHL club has announced its formal affiliation with the OHL’s Saginaw Spirit.

The Maroons have had a working relationship with Saginaw in the past, but officials said the affiliation will help players further their careers and develop for the next level.

This past season, the Spirit rostered a pair of Chatham Maroons in forward David Brown and goaltender Brett Fullerton. In addition to four games with the Spirit, Brown finished second among Chatham scorers with 54 points (26G, 28A). Fullerton led the Maroons with 12 wins, a 3.32 GAA, and .905 SV% this season while also making four appearances in Saginaw.

“We’re incredibly proud to partner with a first-class organization in the Saginaw Spirit,” said Chatham’s Head Coach and GM Richard Santos. “This affiliation offers our organization insight on what it will take to develop our players for the next level, as well as further their careers as a whole.”

Chatham finished the 2022-23 season with a record of 25-21-2-2, placing third in the Western Conference and making their eighth consecutive postseason appearance.

“We had certain criteria that needed to be met in our search for an affiliate, and Chatham exceeded our expectations,” said Spirit General Manager Dave Drinkill. “I’m looking forward to working closely with the Maroons as I believe this is a perfect place for future Spirit players to grow their game.”

“We’ve had a working relationship with Saginaw in the past and look forward to growing this one,” said Santos. “This affiliation will provide great opportunities for players and the organization as a whole.”