Barrie, ON– Barrie Colts General Manager & Head Scout Jason Ford announced today that centerman Julius Nattinen has committed to the team and has signed an Ontario Hockey League standard player agreement.

Nattinen, 18, spent the majority of the 2014-15 season with JYP-Akatemia in Finland’s second division recording 11 goals and 29 points in 39 games. The Finnish centreman was selected by the Anaheim Ducks in the 2015 NHL Draft in the 2nd round, 59th overall.

“We are excited about the opportunity for a player like Julius to be a part of the Colts organization,” said General Manager Jason Ford. “At the end of the day his future in North America will be driven by the Anaheim Ducks and where they think he will have the best chance to develop.”

The 6’2”, 194 pound forward has represented Finland internationally at the 2015 U-18 World Championship earning a silver medal, while also suiting up for his country at the 2013 World U-17 Hockey Challenge.

“Adding a player like Julius to the lineup will help the club immensely, as he will be an impact OHL player instantaneously,” added Ford.

Colts training camp will begin Monday August 31st.

Julius Nattinen C 6’2” 194lbs

Birthplace: Jyvaskyla, Finland

Date of Birth: January 15, 1997

Team League GP G A PTS PIM

2014-15 JYP-Akatemia Mestis 39 11 18 29 8

JYP Liiga 9 0 3 3 0

Finland U18 WJC – 18 7 2 2 4 2

Finland U18 International-Jr 23 11 20 31 1

Finland U18 Hlinka Memorial 4 1 6 7 0