Łódź Legion Add Defensive Anchor Jace Tevely for Inaugural EUCHL Season

ŁÓDŹ, POLAND – The Łódź Legion are proud to announce that defenseman Jace Tevely of Smithers, British Columbia, has committed to the club for the 2026–27 European Union College Hockey League season. The 2006-born blue liner becomes another key piece in the Legion's inaugural roster as the program prepares to redefine the college hockey experience in Europe.

Tevely arrives in Łódź following a successful stint with the Sicamous Eagles, where the physical defenseman demonstrated the two-way capabilities that made him a priority target for the Legion coaching staff. Standing out for his defensive responsibility and hockey IQ, Tevely combines size, strength, and an edge to his game that projects him as a top-pairing defender at the EUCHL level. His ability to move the puck, coupled with a heavy shot from the point, adds a dimension that should translate into offensive production while maintaining his shutdown presence in his own zone.

"Jace embodies exactly what we're looking for," said Legion Head Coach Dylan Row. "He's tough as nails, defensively sound, and possesses offensive upside that we believe will flourish in our system. He's the type of character player who will set the standard for our program both on the ice and in the classroom."

The Smithers native will pursue his academic studies balancing elite-level hockey development with a European university education. This unique opportunity allows Tevely to experience a different culture while advancing his hockey career in a competitive international environment – a combination rarely available to North American players at the college level.

"I'm extremely excited to join the Łódź Legion and be part of something special from the beginning," Tevely said. "The chance to develop as a player while getting my education in Europe was too good to pass up. Playing college hockey in Europe has always been my dream. I’ve always had this crazy thought of travelling the world with hockey and it’s becoming a reality, which means a lot to me. I can’t wait to start my next chapter in Poland with an amazing group of people. "

With Tevely now in the fold, the Legion continue to assemble a roster capable of competing from day one in the EUCHL. As the club lives up to its mission of developing players and building character, the addition of the British Columbia defenseman signals the organization's commitment to bringing top-tier talent to Central Europe's newest hockey destination.