US forward signs up to Belfast Giants for the 2023-24 roster
The Stena Line Belfast Giants are pleased to announce the signing of 25-year-old forward, Greg Printz ahead of the 2023/24 season.
Hailing from Fairfax, Virginia, Printz is set to arrive in town off the back of three consecutive seasons in the American Hockey League (AHL).
Signing within the pro league for the first time during the latter half of the 2020/21 season, Printz iced for the San Diego Gulls, where he would re-sign for the full season to follow, before joining Springfield Thunderbirds where he spent last season.
Before turning pro, Greg Printz played National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) hockey with Providence Friars.
He hit the ice at The SSE Arena, Belfast during his freshman season with the team for the Friendship Four tournament.
During four seasons with the collegiate team, Printz made a total of 133 appearances on the ice and wore the ‘C’ in his final year with the side.
The upcoming 2023/24 season marks the six-foot-two forward’s first hockey season outside of the United States.
Speaking of the most recent roster addition, Belfast Giants’ head coach Adam Keefe said: “Greg is a great addition as we approach the end of the recruitment phase.
“Getting a player of his calibre at this stage in the process is great news for the Belfast Giants.
“He’s a big power forward who can play both ways and put the puck in the net.
“Greg is no stranger to Belfast, having played here in the Friendship Four with Providence.
“Former teammates Jeff Baum and Scott Conway both spoke highly of Greg as a player, teammate and person. He will fit in nicely with the group here.”
Anticipating his arrival in Belfast, Greg Printz said: “I’m excited to play ice hockey in Belfast this season.
“I’ve heard nothing but great things about the city, the organisation, and the passionate fanbase that supports the Giants.
“It’s an honour to be welcomed into such a tight-knit hockey community.
“I can’t wait to lace up and compete alongside my new teammates and defend the three titles that remain from last year.
“Come August, it’ll be time to get to work.”
2023/24 home game fixtures are on sale now for the Belfast Giants’ pre-season, Champions Hockey League, and Elite Ice Hockey League Campaigns.