The Saskatoon Blades announced the signing of American defenceman Liam Brooks (pictured) to a W-H-L Scholarship and Development Agreement Monday morning.
Brooks is a product of Duluth, Minnesota, who was selected 170th overall by the Bridge City Bunch in the 2025 W-H-L Prospects Draft. The signing of the 6’1″ defender closely follows last Monday’s signing of 2011-born forward Teagan Dernisky – the Blue and Gold’s first selection in the 2026 Prospects Draft at 15th overall in the first round. Following is the news release from the Blades…..
Blades Sign 2010 born Liam Brooks to WHL Scholarship Agreement
Saskatoon, SK – The Saskatoon Blades are pleased to announce the signing of 2010-born defenceman Liam Brooks to a Western Hockey League (WHL) Scholarship and Development Agreement. The 6-foot-1 defender was selected 170th overall by Saskatoon in the 2025 WHL Prospects Draft.
“Anytime you can add a young defenceman with Liam’s tools and potential, it’s something to be excited about. We’re big believers in his upside and the complete package he brings, with the foundation to become a very impactful player at our level,” said Blades Director of Scouting Dan Tencer.
“I would also like to recognize the work John Crippa, our Minnesota scout, and Jason Becker, our Player Development Coach, have done in building a strong relationship with Liam over the past year. Liam has been highly engaged in our player development program and has consistently shown a strong commitment to improving his game every day. We believe he has an extremely bright future and we’re delighted to welcome him to Saskatoon.”
The Duluth, Minnesota native had 15 goals and 27 points in 27 games playing for Duluth East High in the USHS-MN league in 2025-26.
“Signing Liam has been one of the top priorities for a hockey club since last May. He is an elite right-shot defenceman who has size, puck skill, presence and IQ. He really checks all the boxes you are looking for when you’re building a young defense corps for the future, and his maturity off the ice will allow him a smooth transition into the league as a 16 year old this fall after a fantastic rookie year in a great high school league in Minnesota last winter,” added General Manager Colin Priestner.
“He certainly had options being the 6th player taken in the USHL draft, but since day 1 of last year’s training camp he has been focused on being a Blade, working closely with myself, Jason and John throughout the season and were so excited that he and his family have trusted the Blades for his junior hockey development, joining other notable USA born players like Max Suter and Charlie Johnson to choose Saskatoon as the place to continue working towards their dreams of playing pro hockey.”
The Blades are pleased to welcome the Brooks family into the organization and community, and look forward to working with Liam here in Saskatoon.
