Gulls Add Keith Gretzky to Roster

In a move that figures to bolster its offense, not to mention its public awareness, the San Diego Gulls on Monday signed Keith Gretzky, a younger brother of the NHL’s all-time leading point scorer Wayne Gretzky, who plays for the Kings.

“I had Keith during his first couple of years as a pro, and he showed a lot of potential,” said Gulls Coach Don Waddell. “He averaged a point a game for me (from 1987-89 at Flint, Mich.) and showed a lot of ability on the offensive end, especially on the power play.”

Gretzky, a center, had 15 goals and 51 assists in 62 games last season for Winston-Salem in the East Coast Hockey League.

Gretzky, 24, is the sixth player signed by the Gulls, who open training camp Thursday. The others are forwards Larry Floyd, Robbie Nichols and Charlie Simmer and defensemen Dave Korol and Alan Hepple.

The Gulls’ first two intrasquad scrimmages will be Saturday and Sunday at the San Diego Sports Arena from 4-6 p.m. on both days. These events are free and open to the public.

INDOOR SOCCER

The Sockers announced the signing of defensive runner Wes Wade to a one-year contract.

Because of his hustling style of play, Wade has been voted the fans’ favorite player in both his seasons with the Sockers.

Though his soccer skills are still developing, Wade has become instrumental by challenging opposing ball handlers and forcing turnovers. His play has caused other Major Soccer League coaches to look more seriously at the defensive runner concept hatched by Sockers Coach Ron Newman several years ago.

“Signing Wes was definitely high on my wish list during this off-season,” Newman said. “His attitude and kinetic style of play give our opponents fits and seem to create endless opportunities for ourselves.”

Last season Wade scored 21 goals and assisted on 15 others. He also blocked 27 shots.

“The fans have been very good to me over the past two years,” Wade said. “But I think this is the year I’ll become more than just the fans’ favorite player.”

FOOTBALL

San Diego State running back T.C. Wright and free safety Damon Pieri, both of whom left Saturday’s game against Pacific with injuries, have both been listed as probable for SDSU’s game Saturday at Air Force.

SDSU trainer Brian Barry said both Wright (bruised left thigh) and Pieri (groin strain) will not practice before Wednesday. Barry also said receiver Patrick Rowe (right shoulder sprain) and linebacker Andy Coviello (left knee tendinitis) have improved and will play Saturday. Rowe missed Saturday’s SDSU-Pacific game, and Coviello was in only four plays.