Walleye continue to bolster defense with Kotyk

(Toledo, OH) – Defenseman Brenden Kotyk has agreed to terms with the Toledo Walleye for the 2018-19 season.

Kotyk, a native of Regina, Saskatchewan, spent his first pro season mostly in Greenville appearing in 51 contests with seven goals, 10 assists and 41 penalty minutes. He also spent time in the AHL with Hartford, skating in seven games for the Wolfpack, scoring once with an assist. Kotyk showed his offensive ability during a five game stretch in November (4-17) in which he scored three times with two assists.

“We are looking forward to adding Brendan to our defensive mix,” said Head Coach Dan Watson. “He has terrific size and the skill to match from the blue line.”

The 6’5”, 225 pound defenseman spent three years (2014-2017) at the University of Minnesota-Duluth where he performed at a plus 25 in 97 contests. Twice he reached three goals in a season and posted a career-best 13 points (3G, 10A) over 41 games in 2016-17, helping the Bulldogs to a NCHC Championship. Kotyk also collected 57 penalty minutes in that same season. The 26 year old was a member of the NCHC All-Academic team during the 2016-17 season and finished his college career with 97 games, seven goals, 16 assists, 25 points and 85 penalty minutes.

GET TO KNOW BRENDEN

Q: Who was your favorite hockey player growing up?

A: “Chris Pronger. He was a big body like myself who could shoot the puck well and played with an edge. He was hard to go up against in the corners.”

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do away from the rink?

A: “I like to watch movies or TV shows. I also like to read. Anything really to get my mind off hockey when I’m not at the rink.”

Q: How are you spending the off season?

A: “I spent some time in Duluth working out and staying in shape. I also did some hiking to take in nature. I’ve also been doing some power skating and spending a little time back home in Regina.”

Q: Do you have any pets?

A: “No, but I’d like to get a French bulldog someday. It was the mascot at Minnesota-Duluth, and a friend of mine at college had one.”

Q: What’s your go-to food?

A: Sushi. I never really had it growing up in Canada, but I was introduced to sushi in Minnesota. There’s a great place in Duluth.”

Q: What did your study in college?

A: “My major was public health education. I’ve always been interested in nutrition and exercise. I’d like to be a personal trainer someday.”

Q: What are you most excited about coming to Toledo?

A: “I was there once last season with Greenville. Toledo has good fans and a nice building. I also want to improve my game and move up to the next level and I think the coaches in Toledo really care about that. Plus, they have a winning tradition and I want to do whatever I can to help them win games.”