Paulson to play in France

Mike Ludwig
May 27, 2008

EPINAL, France - St. Olaf senior John Paulson, a two-time USCHO All-America defenseman, has agreed to terms on a one-year deal to play with the Epinal Dolphins of the French Ligue Magnus.

Paulson was a three-time All-MIAC selection, helping the Oles to playoff appearances in three of his four seasons.

He accumulated 56 points in his 104 career games.

Since winning the French National Division I Title in 2003, the Dolphins have combined a .425 winning percentage since being promoted to the Ligue Magnus and have made the playoffs in each of its four seasons at the top level.

Last season was the Dolphins' best, under first year head coach Shawn Allard, the organization set franchise records for wins and points in a single season.

Allard saw Paulson at the St. Louis Blues developmental camp last summer.

"I was impressed with his size, his skating ability and most importantly his character off the ice," said Allard of Paulson. "He is a very sincere and respectful young man, the type of quality person and role model that we want our players to exemplify."

Epinal's most famed alumni is Hockey Hall of Fame inductee Bob Gainey who played his last season of professional hockey in Epinal during the 1989-1990 season.

Gainey went on to be a head coach in the NHL and is currently the general manager of the Montreal Canadians. Other notable alums include former NHL players Steve Gainey and Daniel Gonau.

Contact media relations specialist Mike Ludwig at (507) 786-3834 or ludwigm@stolaf.edu.