Mateiko, Simek to return for second season with Sea Dogs
SAINT JOHN – Saint John Sea Dogs general manager Anthony Stella announced on Tuesday that import forwards Eriks Mateiko and Pavel Simek will both return for the 2023-24 season. As a result, the team will pass on their two selections in the 2023 CHL Import Draft.
“We’re happy to announce that both Pavel and Eriks will be returning next season to Saint John,” said Stella. “Considering the adjustment period that they had in year 1 in a new country, new league and a new brand of hockey both players showed they can be impactful.”
Mateiko, 17, played 62 games for the Sea Dogs in his first season recording 16 goals and 20 assists. The six-foot-four, 195-pound Latvian also represented his country at the 2023 World Under-18 Championship in April. Mateiko was named captain of Team Latvia and posted two points in five games.
Simek, 18, had 12 goals and 17 assists for 29 points in 61 games this season, his first in North America. The Czechia native also took part in the 2023 World Under-18 Championship notching two points in five games.
“We expect them both to take a step forward this upcoming season on and off the ice and for them to continue to contribute to our team,” added Stella.
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