Experienced defenseman Andrew MacWilliam has joined the Dragons

After a strong start to the season and sixteen games played, Hockey Club Olimpija Ljubljana currently sits in second place in the international ICE Hockey League standings.

As the club looked to strengthen its defensive lineup for the continuation of the season, experienced defenseman Andrew MacWilliam will be joining the Dragons this week.

The robust Canadian defenseman, known for his physical and defensively oriented style of play, continued his career at the University of North Dakota after a successful junior career, serving as team captain in his final season. He was selected by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the NHL Draft and made twelve appearances in the world’s top hockey league.

Before moving to Europe, he played eight seasons in the AHL, followed by three seasons with EHC München in Germany’s top-tier DEL. In the 2022/23 season, he competed in the ICE Hockey League with RB Salzburg, and last year he was a member of the Cardiff Devils.

Anže Ulčar, General Manager of HK Olimpija:

“We wanted to strengthen and stabilize our defensive play. Despite the wins and our high position after a third of the season, we believe we are conceding too many goals. At the same time, we wanted to bring in a player who plays with physicality and decisiveness in the defensive zone and in front of the net. Andrew is exactly that type of player. Moreover, he is already familiar with the playing style of Coach Cooper, so we don’t expect him to have any difficulties adapting.”

Photo: Cardiff Devils – James Assinder