The Steinbach Pistons are pleased to announce that defenseman Landon Cross has committed to the University of Regina.
“I’m very happy with the decision I made in going to Regina,” said Cross. “I had a chance to visit the school and meet some of the guys, both made it an easy decision to commit.”
Cross arrived in Steinbach this past off-season after being acquired in a trade with the Swan Valley Stampeders. The Pistons sent 20 year-old forward Nik Kobelka to Swan Valley in exchange for Cross’ playing rights.
The experienced defenseman was a much-needed asset for Paul Dyck and the Pistons who only had one veteran blue liner returning from the previous year. The Brandon product brought a ton of major junior experience, having played 188 games in the WHL between the Kamloops Blazers and the Kootenay Ice.
“Landon was a tremendous fit for us this past season,” said Dyck, Pistons General Manager, and Head Coach. “He brought veteran experience to our back end and played a very high level throughout the season. His commitment and consistency on the ice and his solid character set a great example for our younger players.”
Cross was given an ‘A’ immediately upon his arrival and proved to be a player the coaching staff could count on game after game only missing one of the team’s 60 regular season contests. He picked up 6 goals and 30 assists in the regular season and added another 3 goals and 3 assists in 13 playoff games, which included an overtime game-winner in the MJHL semi-finals versus the Winnipeg Blues.
Despite Cross’ short one year stint in Steinbach his relationship with fans, teammates, and coaching staff was mutually appreciated. “My experience in Steinbach could not have been better and for that I owe a big thank you to everyone there,” added Cross.
The Pistons organization want to thank Cross for his dedication to the community and his commitment to the organization during his tenure with the team. They would also like to wish Landon all the best as he pursues his future at the University of Regina.