IHM Client Alex Nilsson Signs With Gjøvik
International Hockey Management is proud to announce that client, Alex Nilsson, has signed with Gjøvik Hockey in Norway 1. Divisjon. The October 4, 2000-born Swedish forward is from Munkfors. The left shot stands 6’0 tall and weighs 180 pounds. He spent last season playing in the United States junior system, for the Carolina Jr. Hurricanes of the USPHL.
Last year, Nilsson was a point-per-game star for the Jr. Canes, recording 41 Points in 41 Games Played, and leading the club with 31 Assists. Nilsson played 47 Games for Mora IK J20 in Sweden’s SuperElit, prior to heading overseas. He was a top performer at the J18 Elit level, where he was also the team’s captain, scoring 48 Points over two seasons. In 2015-2016, Nilsson represented Värmland at Sweden’s infamous TV-pucken showcase for the country’s top fifteen year olds. The same year, Nilsson also played 34 games for IFK Munkfors senior team.
Gjøvik Hockey plays in the second professional league in Norway. Gjøvik is located about 70km north of Oslo, and is west of Sweden’s Dalarna region. Last season, they finished in the middle of the pack, with a 23-22 record. The team is coached by a fellow Swede, Patrik Bäärnhielm.
Coach Bäärnhielm noted,
"Alex made a positive impression during the try out, even though he had a short time to show himself. He is a young and humble player that we will continue to work on developing.”
Alex added,
"I chose Gjøvik because it seems like a professional club that works purposefully, and has ambitions. I think it is an exciting team that has great potential to do well this season. My first impression was that I felt very welcomed by both players and managers, as soon as I went into the locker room. It makes me very excited to finally join the team again. It feels really good to be signing with Gjøvik. I’m excited for this coming season and to be a part of the team.
Last season in the US went well. I felt that I developed as a player and now I feel prepared and mature enough to take the step to senior level. It’s going to be a challenge, but a fun one. My expectations in Gjøvik is of course to bring good things to the team, but also to continue to develop as a player. It’s a team with good potential so I think this season will be interesting.”
International Hockey Management President, Chris White, commented,
“Alex has been on an interesting path the last few years, going from being a top player and captain of his J18 team, to more of a depth role in J20 SuperElit, then back to an important role in the US. So, he’s well-adept to handle adversity and varying roles, which are both important components of becoming a successful senior player. I’m very happy for this opportunity with Gjøvik, as many Swedish players have used their development in 1. Divisjon to propel themselves into HockeyEttan or even Get Ligaen, as well as several other leagues throughout Europe. At Alex’s age, his focus needs to be on development and gaining valuable experience, both of which seem readily available in this situation. We got a late start with Alex, as he had some unfortunate happenings prior to reaching out to IHM. So, given the current global hockey environment, it’s very comforting to know he has a secure home to continue focusing on his overall growth. We look forward to following both Alex and Gjøvik, this season."
CONGRATULATIONS, alex!
Follow along throughout Alex's rookie season with Gjøvik Hockey at the following links:
https://www.facebook.com/gjovikhockey/
https://www.instagram.com/gjovikhockey
https://twitter.com/gjovikhockey
Alex's Signing Press Release from Gjøvik Hockey:
https://www.gjovikhockey.no/post/alex-nilsson-klar-for-gj%C3%B8vik
Alex's Player Profile Page:
https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/342042/alex-nilsson
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https://www.facebook.com/intlhockeymgmt