The Genting Casino Coventry Blaze are pleased to announce the addition of American defenceman Chase Hartje for the remainder of the 2023/24 Elite League season.
The 24-year-old will turn professional with Blaze after completing four years in USports at University of Manitoba.
During that time, the two-way blue-liner contributed 45 points (eight goals, 37 assists) in 69 games.
Hartje’s junior career was spent in the WHL where over three seasons he tallied 73 points (13 goals, 60 assists) in 178 regular season games and two assists in 11 playoff appearances.
The signing of the Bemidji native was important ahead of last Thursday’s deadline as Canadian defenceman James Shearer has unfortunately had to be placed on long term injury reserve.
Hartje (spoken as Hart chee) will wear number 24 for the Blaze and is expected to make his debut at Skydome Arena on Saturday vs. Dundee Stars (7pm).
Head Coach Danny Stewart said, “It was vital to get a capable body in at the deadline to strengthen us at the back and protect the guys that we have. Chase is a very good skating, and puck moving defenceman that can help us in all three zones. He adds depth and pace to our backend and we look forward to getting him in this week.”
Thank you to:
Thank you to John and Lesley from Southam Agricultural Services and Stu Gibb of S.G. Building Contractors who have offered financial support to bring Chase to the club.
Both are long-time partners of the Blaze and their support is massively appreciated.
