ECHL: Todd Skirving Says There’s No Place Like Home

Todd Skirving has announced he will be returning for his fifth season with the Newfoundland Growlers.

Nine weeks before opening night, Growler VP of Hockey Operations, Ken O’Leary, welcomed forward Todd Skirving back to the Newfoundland Growlers organization for the 2023-24 season. 

During a media conference, O’Leary and Skirving shared there was a joint “sense of relief” that the popular community-minded player had re-signed. 

 As the Newfoundland Growlers, ECHL affiliate of the Toronto Maple Leafs, announced the forward had signed a Standard Player Contract (SPC) with the Growlers, Skirving was also quick to add that Newfoundland “really feels like home,” sharing he had spent the last few weeks enjoying a  typical  Newfoundland summer, including cod fishing with friends. Skriving stressed this fact: “As everyone knows, my heart is here.” 

But while Skirving, 31, clearly loves Newfoundland, the player is also loved by the community. 

Skirving became an early fan favorite based on his contributions outside the rink, but he has also made major strides on the ice. The forward finished a career season with the Growlers, finishing second in the club with 31 goals, topped only by Pavel Gogolev’s franchise-best, 33.

 “Our organization is delighted to welcome Todd back for his fifth season as a Growler,” said O’Leary. “Since our inaugural season, his importance to this team on the ice, in the dressing room, and in the community has only strengthened year over year. We’re confident this season will be no different.”

A native of Thunder Bay, Ontario, the left-handed forward is now entering his fifth season with the Growlers. He ranks second in all-time games played with the Growlers (193) and fourth in points (59G, 59A, 118 PTS). Skirving was also a member of the Growlers 2019 Kelly Cup championship team.

“I am ecstatic to be continuing my professional playing career here in Newfoundland, a place that’s truly become a second home these last few years,” said Skirving. “Happy to make this official; now it’s time to get to work. Can’t wait to see all the fans in October.”

To add to his on-ice accolades, Skirving is also a multi-time ECHL Community Service Award nominee since arriving in Newfoundland in 2018.

 His parents taught him to give back to the community, Skirving said with pride. 

As for on the ice, Skriving shared he was “excited for the opportunity.” Though there have been many changes. Former teammate Marcus Power has been appointed Hockey Operations Coordinator, and coach Eric Wellwood has been named Assistant Coach of the Toronto Marlies after two seasons with the Growlers.

O’Leary didn’t provide any future details about who this season’s coach would be, but he did say it was being worked on, and he was excited for the opportunities. 

News that popular players like Zach O’Brien, Derian Plouffe, and former captain Jame Melindy would not be returning has led to some fan concern; however, having Skirving secured will certainly be a plus as the team prepares to hit the ice. 

The 5th season of Growlers hockey begins October 20th at Mary Brown’s Centre when Newfoundland hosts the Reading Royals. Season tickets and 9/18 game flex packs for the 2023-24 season are on sale now.