Coming off a 3-2 overtime win against the Carleton Ravens on Friday night, Ontario Tech's
Leif Hertz was at home playing Xbox when got a call from assistant coach Joe Piccone.
The Rochester Americans had called because they needed an emergency backup goaltender (EBUG) on Saturday night in Belleville.
An EBUG is signed to a one-day contract called an amateur tryout agreement (ATO), which typically has a minimum NHL salary attached for one day's work, but EBUGs receive no payment. If any money was accepted amateur status wouldn't exist and Hertz wouldn't be able to come back to the Ridgebacks.
Over his time at Ontario Tech, Hertz has played in 32 conference games, posting a 14-17-0 record, with a 2.26 GAA and .924 save percentage.
Rochester, the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the Buffalo Sabres, confirmed they needed Hertz early Saturday morning. Head coach
Curtis Hodgins gave Hertz the news.
"I woke up Saturday pretty early to pack up my suit and be ready to leave then Hodgey called me around 9:30 that I would officially be needed in Belleville," said Hertz. "I was shocked when I was told that I had a chance to go back up. I honestly thought the call was to tell me I wasn't going to dress against Belleville."
From Kingston, Hertz had played hockey in Belleville numerous times over the years, but this game had some obvious significance to it.
"It was definitely a different feeling. I called their team service person when I got to the rink and then one of the equipment managers came out to grab my gear and bring me to the room," he said. "Once I met the guys and coaches it felt pretty normal after that."
Once in the room he signed his ATO and was able to see they equipment managers were able to get his named stitched on his jersey in a short turnaround.
"I just did what I would normally do and tried not to be a bother to anyone," said Hertz. "Signing the ATO was probably the most exciting part. All the guys were hyping it up and made sure that I got a photo of me signing. I didn't tell anyone when I left for Belleville that I was backing up that night because I didn't want to jinx it, so when I saw my name on the jersey I was just super thankful for the opportunity. I didn't get to keep it, but I got to keep some of the other stuff they gave me, so I was more than happy with what I got."
Meanwhile in Oshawa, the Ridgebacks were preparing to host the Ottawa Gee-Gees. Ontario Tech had William Desmarais starting, with
Christian Mattiace as backup for the night. The Ridgebacks ended the night with a 4-1 win.
"I need to thank all the coaches for allowing me to go that night. I also want to thank my teammates for getting the win against Ottawa. It was a big game for us so when I saw the final score, I was super pumped they pulled off the win and couldn't wait to get back and celebrate with them."
