Vincent Trocheck to be honored with first-ever Saginaw Spirit jersey retirement
By @StefanKubus –
The Saginaw Spirit announced that they will be retiring their first number in organization history as part of their 15-year anniversary celebration.
On Feb. 1, prior to the Spirit’s game against the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, Vincent Trocheck’s No. 89 will be sent to the rafters in a pre-game ceremony.
Trocheck, a Little Caesars alum and current Florida Panthers forward, played for the Spirit from 2009-13 before finishing his junior career with the Plymouth Whalers. He is a former OHL Red Tilson Trophy winner (Most Outstanding Player) and the second highest scorer in franchise history, having amassed 94 goals and 146 assists in 236 games with Saginaw. His 146 assists are a franchise record.
“Considering all the great hockey players that have played for the Saginaw Spirit over the past 15 seasons, I am very much honored to be the first Spirit Alumni to have my jersey retired.” Trocheck said in a press release.
“My time as a player for the Saginaw Spirit helped me to develop my career both on and off the ice. I am very grateful and I won’t ever forget what the organization has done for me.”
Trocheck will also sign autographs in the Bud Light Blue Line Club prior to the game.
The 23-year-old Pittsburgh, Pa. native was named an NHL All-Star this season with 18 goals and 33 points through his 49 games thus far. He established career-high numbers last season with 25 goals and 53 points in 76 games with the Cats.
“His (Trocheck’s) No. 89 will be the first jersey retired in our 15-year history and is a well-deserved honor,” said Spirit President & Managing Partner Craig Goslin. “Not only is Vince immensely talented, his compete level was always on high and his passion for winning, on and off the ice, is second to none. During the ceremony, we also are looking forward to recognizing his Father, Vince Sr. and Mother, Rita, and the entire Trocheck family for their relentless support of Vince and the Saginaw Spirit Hockey Club.“