Schmitz commits to Whalers

Plymouth Whalers President and General Manager Mike Vellucci has announced that 17-year-old defenseman Beau Schmitz, who was selected by the Whalers in the first round (19th overall) of the 2007 Ontario Hockey League Draft, has committed to play for the Whalers.

Schmitz – from Howell, MI – played last season for the National Team Development Program in Ann Arbor, scoring six goals with nine assists for 15 points in 59 games for the NTDP’s Under-17 Team.

“Beau’s an exceptional offensive talent,” Vellucci said. “He will be one of the best skaters in our league. He’s a very tough defenseman and can play any aspect of the game that we ask. I compare him to (former Whalers captain and current Chicago Blackhawk) James Wisniewski, but a better skater.

“He was the best defenseman in his age group and definitely the best American defenseman of his age group. He’s tough, hates to lose and is the complete package. He plays a very in-your-face style of hockey, what I call Whaler hockey. I couldn’t be happier in signing Beau today.

“What’s best about this for Beau is that he will get the best of both worlds — a great education, while developing for the National Hockey League.”

“Coming to Plymouth is a great opportunity,” Schmitz said. “It will help me out with the schooling they offer and the NHL Draft. I like to get up into the play offensively, but play a good defensive game, too.”

In 2006-07, Schmitz played with current Whalers RJ Mahalak (Monroe) and Tyler J. Brown (Westland) on the Belle Tire Under-16 team that won State and National championships.

“They both have been talking to me,” Schmitz said. “They encouraged me, told me how much fun it was and what a nice place Plymouth is.”

The Whalers are preparing for the OHL Priority Selection, held this Saturday starting at 9 a.m. The OHL Priority Selection — is conducted over the internet and can be followed on line at http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/events/index.php?step=1&sub=2&id=121.

Photo: Aaron Bell / OHL