April 20, 2010

Prpic Inks Extension to Remain in Croatia

Joel Prpic, a former St. Lawrence standout, has signed a two-year contract with Medvescak Zagreb (Croatia), the team announced. Prpic joined Medvescak Zagreb after a six-year stint in Japan.

"I cannot imagine going from Zagreb," said Prpic. "For me as a player, this was the best season so far with this incredible audience. My family loves this city and plans to stay as long as possible. We are currently in America, but we cannot wait to return to Croatia."

Medvescak Zagreb fielded a professional team in 2009-10 after nearly a 20-year absence. The club competes in the Austrian-based Erste Bank Eishockey Liga (EBEL), which also includes teams representing Slovenia and Hungary.

Prpic, who starred for the Saints from 1993-97, joined the squad after donning the jersey of the Seibu Prince Rabbits (Japan-ALIH).

The Sudbury, Ontario has enjoyed a memorable hockey career, competing at the National Hockey League (NHL) level with the Boston Bruins and Colorado Avalanche, as well as the American Hockey League (AHL) level with Providence Bruins, Hershey Bears and Cleveland Barons.

In his four-year stint in Canton, New York, Prpic competed in 129 games, compiling 22 goals and 33 assists. His most productive offensive campaign was 1996-97 when he scored 10 goals and assisted on eight tallies in 34 contests.