Frank Sorise
Long before the bright lights of NHL arenas, before donning the “A” on his Columbus Blue Jackets sweater, and long before being named a finalist for the Norris Trophy—awarded to the best defenseman in the National Hockey League—Zach Werenski laced up his skates right here in Grosse Pointe. He wasn’t a star yet. He wasn’t a name on the national radar. He was just a local kid with big dreams and a Detroit Bulldogs jersey on his back.
Zach started like so many others: on early morning sheets of ice, tugging his hockey bag behind him through the doors of ESH Arena. He played with joy, passion, and a drive that even then was impossible to ignore. As an 8-year-old skating for the Bulldogs, he wasn’t thinking about the NHL or the Norris Trophy—he was focused on getting better, being a great teammate, and making his hometown proud.
For the Detroit Bulldogs Hockey Club, Zach Werenski isn’t just a success story. He’s a symbol of what’s possible. He walked the same locker rooms, took the same warm-ups, listened to the same coaches, and wore the same logo that today’s players do. His rise from local standout to one of the league’s premier defensemen is more than impressive—it’s inspiring.
After his youth days in Grosse Pointe, Zach’s talent carried him to the U.S. National Team Development Program, where he refined his skills against the best of the best. From there, he starred at the University of Michigan, racking up accolades and drawing the attention of NHL scouts. In 2015, he was drafted 8th overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets.
But talent alone didn’t get him there. What truly defines Werenski is his relentless work ethic, his leadership, and the humility he’s maintained through it all. He became an NHL All-Star. He wore the “A” as an alternate captain. And now, in 2025, he’s a finalist for the Norris Trophy—the highest individual honor a defenseman can earn in professional hockey.
Zach’s story is a powerful reminder: greatness can grow right here in Grosse Pointe. Every time one of our Bulldogs takes the ice, they’re skating in the path he helped carve. The dream isn’t out of reach—it’s already been done.
So to every current Bulldog—whether you’re just learning to stop, scoring your first goal, or working toward a spot on your next team—look no further than Zach Werenski. He was once exactly where you are now. And through focus, effort, and love for the game, he’s made it all the way to the top.
Good luck, Zach. The entire Detroit Bulldogs family is behind you. We couldn’t be prouder.
Now let’s show the next generation that it can be done. Because it already has.
