The Virden Oil Capitals have shored up their defense for the upcoming MJHL season, and the talent was right in their back yard.

The team announced Tuesday that it had signed Justin Lee, who grew up in Waskada and played last season at Athol Murray College with the Midget AAA Notre Dame Hounds. This development program has a long history of producing high quality hockey players, including NHL'ers like Jordan Eberle, Jaden Schwartz, Tyler Myers and Morgan Rielly.

"Anytime we can add a player of Lee’s skill-set to our team from a local perspective in southwestern Manitoba, it’s a win-win for both the organization and the player," said Jamie Hodson, Director of Business and Hockey Operations for the Oil Capitals.

Lee certainly shares the excitement of the Oil Caps for a local connection. "I’m more than excited to play with the Oil Caps," the 17-year-old said after signing. "They have great fans and a great facility. I can't wait to get things started."

Lee, a defenseman, plays an offensive style of game with playmaking ability. In 39 games with the Hounds last season, Lee registered 19 points including 4 goals, earning him team MVP honours. This past season also saw Lee playing in the Mac's AAA international midget hockey tournament in Calgary, where he was chosen as a first team all-star defenceman.

"Justin is a dynamic defenceman who sees the ice and skates well," said Troy Leslie, head coach and GM of the Oil Capitals in a press release. "He has a really good shot from the point. He’s a guy that can push the pace and will be able to join the rush from the back end."

Lee's offense will add to an Oil Caps squad looking to improve on a season that saw them finish with a regular season record of 26-26-8, with an average of just under 3 goals scored per game. The team will also be looking to get past the first round of the playoffs this year starting on September 22nd at Tundra Oil & Gas Place when they open the 2017-2018 season against the Dauphin Kings.