The Adelaide Adrenaline are delighted to formally announce the signing of 6’2 Ukrainian Defenseman, Alexander Voronin. Alexander joins the team following a 17-game stint in Italy3 with HC Aosta, where he picked up 8 goals and 11 assists.
Prior to the 23/24 season, Voronin has played in Poland, Lithuania, Sweden Division 2 and primarily his native country, Ukraine. His wealth of experience at just 24 years old, also includes playing for the Ukraine Men’s International team in 2022.
Adrenaline General Manager Glen Foll was excited to share the newest addition to the team.
“It’s great to have a player with Alex’s experience join the team as we continue the push for a playoff position. He’s played professionally and for the national team so I’m confident we are bringing an elite player to bolster the defense.”
At the beginning of preparations for the 2024 season, IIHF and IHA requested the AIHL to allow Ukrainian players to be treated as local players due to the ongoing situation in the Ukraine. The league advised clubs that they support this request and will allow one Ukrainian player per team. Due to unexpected delays in acquiring a visa, the AIHL has accepted the clubs request for an exemption allowing Voronin to play without needing to adhere to the July 1 deadline.
“Ever since the announcement that the league supported teams to sign a Ukrainian player, Alex and I have been working together to make it happen. Acquiring a visa hasn’t been an easy process and Alex has waited patiently for the opportunity despite some uncertainty along the way.” said Foll.
“I’m grateful for the support received from the league to allow Alex an exemption. It’s clear from all my conversations with him that’s he’s going to be a good addition to the Adelaide hockey community.”
“It’s hard to imagine being unable to return to your home country due to war, but I know he will quickly feel at home in Adelaide. Alex is looking forward to meeting his teammates and the Adelaide supporters at the games this weekend.”
Voronin is expected to land in Adelaide on Friday morning after getting on a plane only 5 hours after confirmation of his visa approval. Adrenaline fans can see Voronin on Saturday (4:45PM Puck Drop) and Sunday (4:15PM Puck Drop) against the Brisbane Lightning. The Adrenaline are currently 4 points out of a playoff position with 7 games remaining. With Brisbane ahead in the standings, the team will look to secure key competition points this weekend against the conference rival.
ADRENALINE
BEARS
LIGHTNING
ICE DOGS
BRAVE
