Blades to retire Chase Wouters’ jersey

Saskatoon Blades captain Chase Wouters got quite a surprise following his final game of junior hockey Wednesday.

After scoring the game-winning goal and adding an assist in the Blades’ 5-2 victory over the Brandon Wheat Kings in the Regina hub, Wouters’ post-game media availability was interrupted by Blades general manager Colin Priestner.

“I’m so proud of you. You embody everything that we ever want in a Blade and I want you to be the first to know that no one is ever going to wear (No.) 44 for this club again,” Priestner said.

“As far as I’m concerned, 44 belongs to you.”

Wouters ended his WHL career as the longest-serving captain in Blades history. Three of his five years in Saskatoon were spent with the “C” on his jersey.

Earlier Wednesday, head coach Mitch Love described how important Wouters has been to the team.

“He’s going to do great things in his career, in his life — he’s an outstanding young man raised by some quality parents,” Love said. “He’ll be forever remembered for what he’s meant to our organization the past five years.”

The Blades ensured that memory will be eternal with Priestner’s jersey retirement announcement.

“I couldn’t be more proud of you, and I wish I was there to give you a big hug,” Priestner said.

Wouters finished his career with the Bridge City bunch playing in 280 games, registering 75 goals and 106 assists for 181 points.

Knowing his number will one day hang from the rafters at SaskTel Centre took the 21-year-old by surprise.

“It was just an honour being drafted here when I was 14. It’s crazy how fast time flies by,” Wouters said while wiping tears from his face.