Defenseman Evan Wardley Returns to Steelheads

BOISE, Idaho – Defenseman Evan Wardley has agreed to terms with the Idaho Steelheads for the 2020-21 season, Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operations Everett Sheen announced Thursday.

Wardley, 26, played in 9 games with the Steelheads during the 2019-20 campaign after being signed from the University of Lethbridge (CWUAA). Before entering collegiate play, Wardley played 12 games over parts of two seasons with the Wheeling Nailers.

“Evan was only with us a short time last year but made a great impression,” said Steelheads Head Coach Everett Sheen. “He brings an element of toughness on the backend that is very tough to play against as an opponent. We are pleased to bring Wards back for another season and excited to see what he can do in a full season wearing a Steelheads jersey.”

"I'm very excited to be back in Boise next season," said Wardley. "The fans were amazing and I knew right away where I wanted to be for this year. The team finished on a high note before the abrupt stop so I'm really looking forward to a full season with this organization and to compete again with my teammates."

Prior to his professional and collegiate careers, the 6-foot-3, 218-pound defenseman played four full seasons and parts of five years with the Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL) from 2010-11 through 2014-15, posting 40 points (9g, 31a) with 443 penalty minutes through 208 games. In his final season in 2014-15, he tabbed a career-best 22 points (6g, 16a) through 57 games with 120 penalty minutes while also serving as an alternate captain.

Wardley is the first defenseman agreeing to terms with the Steelheads and fifth overall player joining forwards A.J. White, Zach Walker, Will Merchant, and Colby McAuley. Future player announcements will be made at a later date.

Season tickets for the 2020-21 season are now available! Call the Steelheads Front Office at 208-383-0080 to plan your seats for next season. Stay connected to the Steelheads throughout the summer on idahosteelheads.com or by following the team on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.