We have got two press releases coming out of Charlotte today, a place rarely buzzing with hockey news. The recently retired Deacon Douglas explains his departure while newcomer Wendell Luna expresses his excitement and readiness to enter the SHL circuit.

Deacon Douglas played only a few seasons, and spent most of them in the SMJHL as a send down on the Regina Force. After being a star left winger in his rookie season for the Force, he quickly fell from his pedestal. He has spent the past few seasons as an SHL free agent, and has, just recently, decided to give up on his SHL career. The only bitterness he expresses is bitterness at himself for giving up too easily.

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From the home of Deacon Douglas:

Choosing to retire from the SHL was a hard choice honestly, but I knew it had to be done. I did enjoy my time on the SHL circuit. I had the privilege of being drafted by the two teams I wanted to play for. Going into the SMJHL my top choice was the Force, and my top choice in the SHL was the Dragons. I was very lucky to get drafted to those teams, as not a lot of people get the opportunity to play at their first choice.

I do regret that I was unable to make the most of those opportunities. The ultimate truth is that I did not put in the time needed to improve quick enough to be competitive in this circuit. The SHL is a competitive league, and I simply was not up to the task.

That being said, I thank everyone who gave me a chance here in the SMJHL and in the SHL. I  respect everyone who has made a career here, and wish the best of luck upon my former teammates who remain.

Wendell Luna is an up an coming defender in North Carolina who is hoping to step up to the big leagues. He has loved hockey since he was a child, but only started playing it in his teens. Some fear this may be a minor set back against the experienced players of this circuit. Luna hopes to prove the naysayers wrong, and seems poised to do so as he continues his training heading in to the SMJHL draft.

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From the Home of Wendell Luna

I, Wendell Luna, would like to formally announce my entry into the SHL circuit. I will be available to be drafted in the SMJHL S26 draft.

I am absolutely, one hundred percent ecstatic to be offered an opportunity to play in this circuit, which is probably one of the best in North America, if not THE best. When you think of North Carolina, you don't really think of hockey. It has been rough trying to become a star hockey player here, but I have trained myself up the best way that I could, and I completely believe that I have the potential to be a serious player in the SMJHL and eventually the SHL.

I will be checking out some potential teams, and will gladly take any calls from GMs. Let it be known, I will be continuing my training heading up to the draft, and will do my best to get some more information about myself out there in the near future. Until then, just know that my name is Wendell Luna, defenseman out of Charlotte, North Carolina, and I am ready for the big leagues.

Neither player could be reached for questions, though Wendell Luna has stated that a press conference may be held in the near future when he releases his goals and expectations for his rookie year in the SMJHL.

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Man the name Deacon Douglas takes me back

Konrad Danke / C / 340 TPE / Texas / Maine / Czech
S54 Draft Class // Czech Republic


John Heimer-Schmidt // Former Whaler GM // Retired
The Greatest Shitstirrer of All Time


thanks @suavemente !