Blazers Sign Four Players; one from Corona, CA

The Kamloops Blazers are pleased to announce the signing of four players upon the conclusion of training camp on Tuesday night. The club has signed defenseman Brandon Underwood, and forwards Uriah Machuga, Cole Grbavac, and Neil Landry to WHL Player Contracts and Education Agreements.

Underwood and Machuga are 16-year-olds from California who were scouted and invited to camp by long-time Blazer scout Warren Renden. "Both players came in and earned these contracts with their performances at camp. We congratulate them on taking this step to furthering their hockey careers and guaranteeing their university education," said Blazer General Manager Craig Bonner. Underwood - a product of the LA Junior Kings program - hails from Corona, CA while Machuga - who played for the California Wave - calls Norco, CA home.

Landry was a 5th round selection of the Blazers in the 2007 Bantam Draft and spent last season with the Saskatoon Blazers of the Saskatchewan Major Midget League. "We were very happy with Neil's work ethic, his speed, and his determination and we look forward to him joining the Blazer family," said Director of Scouting Ken Fox.

Grbavac is a 17-year-old forward from Calgary who played last season for the Calgary Buffaloes of the Alberta Major Midget League. "Cole impressed us with his grit and toughness. We're excited that he's chosen the Western Hockey League to solidify his hockey and scholastic futures," said Director of Player Personnel Matt Recchi.

All four players are expected to see action this weekend as the Blazers play a home-and-home series against the Vancouver Giants. The teams will meet in Ladner on Friday then back in Kamloops on Saturday.