The Neepawa Natives have traded veteran defenseman Kruz Listmayer to the Dauphin Kings in exchange for 6’02, 202 pound defenseman Austin Friesen. Friesen is a 1998 born player who hails from Winnipeg and has collected 14 points in 57 games with the Kings over the past 2 seasons. “Friesen is a skilled defenseman that will play in our top 4 to provide more depth for the hockey club”, stated General Manager Myles Cathcart. Listmayer played in 130 games for the hockey club over the past 4 seasons collecting 25 points and 220 penalty minutes while wearing a Natives jersey. Cathcart went on to talk about his respect for Listmayer and dedication to the hockey club, “Trades are never easy and it is something we do not take lightly. Kruz is an amazing person, dedicated and a true professional. He has represented the organization with class and dignity during his years in Neepawa. We wish him the best in future.”
Head Coach Dustin Howden echoed a similar message regarding Listmayer. “Kruz and I broke into the league around the same time. I was the defensive coach and we spent alot of time in the arena. A hockey team is more than just practices and games it becomes an extension of a family. He is a quality young man with a great future ahead of him. I have alot of respect for the way he represented himself and the organization”
The Neepawa Natives play at home on Wednesday vs the Waywayseecappo Wolverines and Friday night vs the Winnipeg Blues. Games are 7:30.