(Release courtesy Cooper Douglas/WestCentral Online)
Kindersley born goaltender Justen Close has earned an opportunity at the next level, officially signing a pro contract with the Jacksonville Icemen of the ECHL.
Announced on Wednesday, Close’s old junior club helped break the news.
A very successful junior and college career had many people wondering what Close’s next step would be.
The former Kindersley Jr Klippers star netminder won back-to-back SJHL top goaltender awards during his time at home, earning himself an opportunity to play Division 1 hockey at the University of Minnesota. In 100 career games with the Golden Gophers, Close had a 2.18 GAA, and .924 SV%, winning 62 wins across a full college career.
Close’s path also included seasons with both the West Central Wheat Kings and Unity Lazers AA programs, and Tisdale Trojans AAA, before catching on in Kindersley. Close would compile a 58-39-13 record with his hometown team over three seasons, before being recruited by coach Bob Motzko to the highly touted Gophers’ hockey program.
Close’s hometown will no doubt be following along as he begins his next chapter in Jacksonville. The decorated goaltender has impressed at every level, and will look to keep that trend now officially hitting the pro ranks.
