The Spirit have announced the signing of forward Drew Bate to a Scholarship and Development Agreement, marking a strategic move aimed at bolstering their roster ahead of the upcoming season.
Bate, a right‑shot centre who stands 5’10.25 and weighs 163 pounds, arrives from the London Jr. Knights U16 AAA program where he dominated the ALLIANCE circuit.
During the 2025‑26 campaign he led his junior team in scoring with 72 points in 27 games and added 21 points in eight playoff contests, earning the distinction of 2026 ALLIANCE Player of the Year.
The 18‑year‑old expressed enthusiasm about the new opportunity, stating his excitement to join the Spirit and contribute to success in Saginaw.
A promising addition
He will sign alongside fellow draft prospect Kyler Lauder, a move that the club believes could accelerate the development of both players toward their NHL aspirations.
GM’s vision
Spirit general manager Dave Drinkill praised the additions, noting that Bate and Lauder possess the talent and work ethic required to evolve into professional athletes.
Drinkill highlighted the organization’s commitment to nurturing young talent, suggesting that the new contracts provide a clear pathway for growth within the club’s development system.
The acquisition underscores the Spirit’s focus on blending immediate competitiveness with long‑term player development, a philosophy that aligns with the team’s recent performance trends.
Looking ahead
With the new agreements in place, the Spirit hope to translate early‑season optimism into tangible results on the ice, aiming to climb the league standings and secure a playoff berth.
Fans in Saginaw and across the hockey community will be watching closely as Bate adjusts to the professional environment and seeks to replicate his junior success at a higher level.