Bulldogs Acquire Cody Pisarczyk
Graphic: Aidan Serra, Blackfalds Bulldogs
The Blackfalds Bulldogs have acquired 2004-born forward Cody Pisarczyk from the Drayton Valley Thunder in exchange for 2004-born forward Benjamin Winkelmann.
The Bulldogs acquired Pisarczyk’s CJHL playing rights for Winkelmann back in early September, with Pisarczyk electing to start the season in the NAHL with the Maine Nordiques. In 17 NAHL games, Pisarczyk scored seven goals and 10 points but has since decided to return to the AJHL and join Blackfalds.
“I am super happy that the Bulldogs Organization believes in me and supports me as a player,” said Pisarczyk. “I have heard great things about the Bulldogs throughout my time in the AJHL.”
Bulldogs Director of Hockey Operations Al Parada says he’s ecstatic for Pisarczyk to strengthen the Bulldogs’ forward core.
“Cody has the ability to come in and contribute right away and be an impact player on our team,” said Parada. “Obviously there is always a transition period from one league to another but Cody played in this league last year, and the year before, and was successful.”
Pisarczyk split last season between the Spruce Grove Saints and the Drayton Valley Thunder, totalling 50 games, scoring 14 goals, and earning 32 points between the two. He was a member of the Saints in 2021-22, scoring 14 goals and 40 points in 52 games as a rookie.
“Playing two years in the AJHL has taught me a lot about myself as a person and player,” said Pisarczyk, when asked what he hopes to bring to the 2023-24 Bulldogs team. “I am a player who plays with energy, scores goals and can set up my teammates.”
Parada says that the recent additions of Pisarczyk and defenceman Trent LeDrew will help the Bulldogs right the ship, as the team has started November 2-3-0 after going 10-0-1 through October.
Bulldogs Head Coach Doug Quinn says the additions are part of the team’s long-term goals.
“Both players will provide veteran leadership and depth into our lineup, this is a difficult league and a long season,” said Quinn. “We are working hard to put the building blocks in place now so we are peaking at the end of the season.”
The entire Bulldogs organization is thrilled to welcome Cody and his family to Blackfalds!