OSHAWA, Ont. – The Ontario Tech women's hockey team is pleased to announce the commitment of Kayla Welk for the 2020 season.
 
From Barrie, Welk joins the Ridgebacks from the Barrie Jr. Sharks program, enroling in the kinesiology program.
 
"While visiting Ontario Tech's campus and arena, I immediately felt comfortable and could envision myself as a Ridgeback," said Welk. "Not only does a smaller school appeal to me, but I was very impressed with quality education and advanced technology the university had to offer. I have already experienced support and encouragement from the coaching staff and other members of the women's hockey team. I am extremely proud and excited to be a part of this team."
 
Last season with Barrie she was named captain, scoring five goals and 10 points in 35 Provincial Women's Hockey League (PWHL) games. The previous season she finished with seven goals and 16 points in 38 games.
 
"Kayla is a great addition to our hockey program. She's a very skilled and smart hockey player with tremendous work ethic," said head coach Justin Caruana. "She has been a leader and demonstrates a lot of the traits we look for in all of our players. I am thrilled she is a Ridgeback and I look forward to working with her and watching her grow."
 
Outside of her time with the Sharks she attended both U16 and U18 Team Ontario camps, with her also representing Ontario at Hockey Canada's U18 national championship in 2019.
 
Welk is the first official recruit to be announced by the women's hockey program, with more recruits to be announced in the coming weeks.