Another Bulldog off to the big leagues

Simon Denis joins fellow Ferris alumni on Colorado Avalanche ECHL affiliate

Fifth year senior defenseman Simon Denis anchored a veteran defensive unit for the Bulldogs this year.
Fifth year senior defenseman Simon Denis anchored a veteran defensive unit for the Bulldogs this year. Photo by: Keith Salowich | Editor in Chief

Ferris hockey senior Simon Denis has signed a deal with Colorado Avalanche East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) affiliate, the Fort Wayne Komets.

He joins former Bulldogs Garrett Thompson, Mike Embach, and Pat Nagle on the No. 2 team in the Western Conference of the ECHL.

Denis said, “It’s still kinda hard to believe that, one, I’m not a Bulldog anymore, and two, that I’m playing in the professional ranks. I’ve worked my entire life for it so to have it actually be a reality is awesome.”

He also had offers from the Greenville Swamp Rabbits, Allen Americans, and Florida Everblades. However, he felt the Komets were the best fit for him.

Denis said, “Fort Wayne was just the best fit for me to get in the lineup right away. There’s a few Ferris players here so that kind of helped my decision.”

He finished his five-year career with 15 goals and 60 points culminating in a WCHA tournament title and Elite Eight appearance in the NCAA tournament this season.

Denis has signed an amateur tryout agreement with the Komets meaning he is under contract the remainder of this ECHL season. The team will make a decision on whether or not to resign him at the conclusion of the season.