WHEELING, West Virginia - For Laurier men's hockey goaltender Christian Propp, West Virginia is indeed "almost heaven". 

The lyrics made famous by the singer-songwriter John Denver, and sung at Laurier football games for decades, will ring even truer now for the Golden Hawks' stalwart netminder, after signing with the ECHL's Wheeling Nailers through the end of the team's season.

Wheeling is the affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins of the American Hockey League (AHL). The team currently sits fifth in the Western Conference standings at 30-21-1-1 and, with 19 games remaining, is looking to secure a return to the Kelly Cup playoffs.

Propp, a kinesiology and physical education major from Burlington, Ont.,  will make his pro debut on Saturday, as he's scheduled to get the start against Fort Wayne.

In his final season with the purple and gold, he led Ontario University Athletics (OUA) with 817 saves in 24 starts. He also finished in the top 10 for wins (11), goals against average (2.81), save percentage (.924), and minutes played (1,432:01).

In five playoff games, he made 173 saves - the second most among postseason goaltenders.

"I couldn't be more thankful for my time at Laurier," said Propp, who finished as the team's record-holder for best goals-against average in a season (on record) at 2.10. "I have been blessed with an amazing four years in which I was able to better myself as a person, through sport and education, while also being able to develop lifelong friendships."

"I'm excited to be given an opportunity in Wheeling to prove myself at the next level." 

In 59 starts over his OUA career, Propp totalled 28 wins, a 2.73 goals against average, and a .918 save percentage. He also backstopped Laurier to consecutive playoff appearances.

Laurier's manager of men's hockey operations and head coach Kevin Forrest commented how "nobody is more deserving than Christian for an opportunity at the pro level."

"His work ethic in the classroom and on the ice is second to none," said Forrest of the OUA all-star. "He's the perfect example of what it takes to become a pro and a good person.

"Even as Christian moves on to a new team, his leadership leaves a positive impact on our program that will last for many years to come. We're forever grateful for his time here and wish him all the best on his pro journey."

Golden Hawks goaltender coach Dave Dolecki reflected on how impressive it was to witness Propp meet and exceed each of his personal goals in the crease this past season.

"(Christian) is our MVP, our leader on and off the ice, and a role model to his teammates," said Dolecki. "It's so nice to see all his hard work and commitment be rewarded with his first pro contract in the ECHL." 

"I wish him and his family nothing but the best in his pro journey and I look forward to continue working with him."