Moving to the SMJHL was a big leap for Alex Petrenko, and one he was very nervous about. Though he'd had great success in the Russian leagues, America was a whole new world, the great beyond. He knew that he'd face fierce competition from the start, and he'd have to work hard to prove himself. Thankfully, things worked out amazingly well for him as he was drafted in the beginning of the second round by the Anaheim Outlaws. His teammates immediately welcomed him with open arms and made the transition to a new life in a new country very comfortable for him. In this environment he more than thrived on the ice, wowing the league with his deft passing from the 2nd line and winning Rookie of the Year honors. His performance and presence in the locker room lead him to be named an alternate captain beginning his second season. As he worked to expand his game, his sophomore year was a bit more quiet stats-wise, but he was still able to contribute to the team in a variety of ways. This season, he's back to filling up the stat sheet, helping lead the Outlaws to what will hopefully be a deep playoff run.

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