August 16, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Kevin Slusarski, Ontario Reign PR Intern
Phone: (909) 941-7825
Email: pr@ontarioreign.com
 

Reign and Steelheads Exchange Rights to Forwards
Ontario Receives Rights to Geoff Irwin for Rights to Aaron Lewadniuk

ONTARIO, Calif. – The Ontario Reign, proud affiliate of the NHL's Los Angeles Kings, have acquired the rights to forward Geoff Irwin from the Idaho Steelheads in exchange for the rights to the Reign's center Aaron Lewadniuk.

Irwin, 26, was sixth in team scoring with 25 points (13g, 12a) in 57 games for the Steelheads in his rookie season. One of his 13 goals was an overtime game-winner in the final seconds of overtime to beat Bakersfield on February 9 at Qwest Arena in Boise. Irwin’s gritty play earned him the respect of his teammates last season, as they voted him Idaho’s Unsung Hero.

The Victoria, BC native played eight games with Idaho in 2009-10 after four years at Minnesota State University, Mankato (WCHA).  He he recorded 84 points (32g, 52a) in his 143 game college career and totaled 185 points (88g, 97a) in his three seasons of BCHL junior hockey, one season each with the Cowichan Valley Capitals, Prince George Spruce Kings, and Burnaby Express. Irwin scored 14 goals and 16 assists in 20 playoff games with the Express in 2006, as he and his teammates won the BCHL championship Fred Page Cup and the Canadian Junior A championship Royal Bank Cup.

Lewadniuk finished his first professional season with 31 points (17g, 14a) for the Reign and was honored with a selection to the ECHL All-Star team. His 2010-11 highlights include a three-point (2g, 1a) night against the Alaska Aces on December 21 and a three-game goal streak.

The 22-year-old center began his junior hockey career with the Winkler Flyers (MJHL) in 2006, recording 87 points (43g, 44a) and 104 penalty minutes in 61 games. He played with the Omaha Lancers (USHL) before spending two seasons (2008-10) with the Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL). Lewadniuk recorded 133 points (52g, 81a) and 107 penalty minutes in 128 games with the Wheat Kings. He also tallied 28 points (14g, 14a) in 41 junior playoff games.

Remember that the Reign’s regular season opener is Friday, October 14, 2011. Season tickets are on sale now, with mini-plans starting as low as $85. Call us today to secure the best seats in the arena, as you won’t want to miss a minute of the action! Call (909) 941-PUCK (7825) or visit us on the web at www.ontarioreign.com.
 

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