NEWS

Oakville Blades captain Bailey Newton (Photo by Ryan McCullough / OJHL Images) has committed to NCAA Division 1 University of Alabama-Huntsville for the 2018-19 NCAA season.

Newton, 19, became an incredible defensive force for the Blades, using his quick speed and instincts to force opponents to make mistakes with the puck. The British-born Newton joined the Blades in 2016-17 after spending the first 30 games of the year with the Smiths Falls Bears, making an immediate impact with Oakville by posting 10 points in 24 games.

The physical blueliner was named team captain prior to Oakville’s 51st season, a well-respected honour for the second-year OJHLer. Newton, who played AAA minor midget for the Halton Hills Hurricanes in front of two years at Appleby College, would finish the season with 17 points in the regular season before beating his career OJHL output in goals during the playoffs this past season, scoring three goals and adding an assist for four points.

“Bailey has been a tremendous leader for our young group this year and an excellent teammate in both of his seasons with the Blades,” said Oakville general manager Jordan Selinger. “We could not be happier for an extremely hard-working kid who absolutely deserves this. Alabama-Huntsville is getting a heck of a hockey player and an even better person. We wish him the best of luck and know he will find success at UAH alongside former Blades teammates Christian Rajic and Jack Jeffers”

Congratulations, Bailey, and best of luck in the NCAA!