The Red Deer Rebels have announced that another member of its 2022 Western Hockey League Prospects Draft class has signed a WHL Standard Player Agreement with the club.

Forward Matthew Gard was selected by the Rebels with the 39th overall pick in round two of the draft. The Winnipeg, MB native recorded 42 points, including 10 goals, in 27 games with his hometown Rink Academy U15 squad during the 2021-22 season.

“Matthew improved as the year went on, adjusting from being a full-time d-man previously to playing forward for the first time this season,” noted Rebels Associate General Manager Shaun Sutter.

“We see a tall, athletic player with layers to his game who can skate and think the game. His ceiling is high, and we believe as a scouting staff that he will take leaps in his development as he matures and fills into his big frame.”

Defenceman Luke Vlooswyk, selected in round one, 17th overall in the 2022 WHL Prospects Draft signed with the Rebels last week.

Matthew Gard

Forward
DOB: April 4/07
Hometown: Winnipeg, MB
Height: 6’2 Weight: 160
Shoots: Left
Rink Academy U15 Prep
2021-22 Stats: 27 GP, 10 G, 32 A, 42 P, 63 PIM