The Drayton Valley Thunder of the Alberta Junior Hockey League are proud to announce that 03
defencemen Luca Ricci (Montreal, QC) has signed with the team for the 2021/22 season.
Luca has played the last 3 seasons with the prestigious Shattuck St. Mary’s program located in Faribault
Minnesota. The senior had an impressive final season with the U18 Prep team with 3 goals, 22 assists in
30 regular season games. Shattuck St. Mary’s U18 Prep finished the regular season with an 18-2-2
record and holds the number 1 ranking in USA U18 hockey.
Associate General Manager and Associate Coach Matt Keillor spoke about today’s signing.
“With Kabe Bleay aging out we really wanted to find a left shot defensemen that could step in and have
the skill set to provide that important secondary offence. Luca was a player that really jumped out to us
when we watched the Minnesota Elite League this season and were really excited to have him in
Drayton. Luca is no stranger to big games, he’s played in the US Under 18 National Championships, he’s
played at the International Quebec Peewee tournament and he’s played at the International Brick
Tournament. He has big game experience and he’s calm under pressure. He sees the ice really well and
is a great passer, but he can also jump into the play and create offense off the rush. His peers spoke
highly of his character and determination and he instantly makes us a better team”
The Thunder organization would like to Welcome Luca and the Ricci family to Drayton Valley! Check in
soon for schedule updates and other exciting announcements!