OSHAWA, Ont. – Ontario Tech Ridgeback alumnus, Loren Ulett (Port Perry, Ont.), has signed his first American Hockey League (AHL) contract with the Ontario Reign (LA Kings affiliate).
 
The 27-year-old was a member of the Ridgebacks from 2015-18, studying the commerce program. Playing 69 games over his three seasons, he finished with 18 goals and 33 points. He is also the first Ridgeback to sign a contract with an AHL club. 
 
"Playing for the Ridgebacks really reignited my love for the game," he said. "When I initially was contacted about playing with the Ridgebacks, I had just finished my 20-year-old season in the OJHL because I was not offered an over-age spot in Kingston (OHL) and was released from the Idaho Steelheads (ECHL). By that point, I started questioning if I even wanted to play anymore." 
 
Looking back at his experience at Ontario Tech, he said that several coaches and staff played a role in reigniting his passion.
 
"Craig Fisher reached out to me and fueled my excitement to play again. Craig always believed in my game and thought I was capable of playing in the AHL," he said. "I was able to grow as a person and player year-after-year by going to Elite Training Systems (ETS). Through working on the ice with all the coaches (Craig, Curtis, Brad, John, Jamie, Paul, Rod); doing rehab with athletic therapy staff (Jess, Saul, Alison) whenever I had an injury or just questions regarding physical improvements; the staff at the rink (Tim, Chris, Matt, Tyler) who assisted with all the behind-the-scenes elements that people rarely get to see; as well as my teammates that constantly challenged me to be the best person and player possible."
 
Ulett was notified mid-game, playing for Kansas City Mavericks in the ECHL, that he'd been called to play for the Reign, where he is filling a spot on a PTO (professional tryout contract) and is looking to earn a full-time spot on the roster. During his time with Kansas City so far (2018-22), he has played in 160 with 18 goals and 30 points.
 
"I'm one of four players on the Reign without an NHL contract, so I've had an unconventional career path to get here, which makes me feel even more grateful to be in this position. I'm going to do everything I can to help the team and continue to enjoy moment."
 
The Ontario Reign are currently second in their division and play Friday, March 18 at home when they take on the Bakersfield Condors at 7 p.m.
 
While his hockey career path through U SPORTS to an opportunity in the AHL wasn't a guarantee, Ulett believes there are several university hockey players in Canada that are worthy of playing at a high level professionally.
 
"The OUA and U SPORTS are majorly slept on when it comes to pursuing your hockey goals, while continuing your education and that's a shame," he said. "I really believe that it is one of the best places for athletes to continue to hone their athletic skills while earning their degree and broadening their horizons. Luckily as of late, I have seen many more U SPORTS, OUA and Ridgebacks players get an opportunity at various pro levels in hockey and I hope that this is a trend that continues."