Clendening makes U.S. Junior team

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO (WIVB) - Last year, Adam Clendening was one of the final cuts from a USA team that would play in his hometown.  This year, while it won't come close to his family, Clendening will wear the Red, White and Blue.  The defenseman has earned a spot on the team that will play in this year's World Junior Championships in Edmonton and Calgary.

The Wheatfield native will debut with Team USA on Monday, when the Americans play Denmark in Edmonton.  Currently playing at Boston University, Clendening was a second round draft pick of the Chicago Blackhawks this summer.

Clendening was hugely disappointed when he was cut from last year's team.  He was excited about the chance to play in front of his family and friends in Buffalo, which hosted last year's tournament. 

Seven players return from the squad that won the bronze medal in Buffalo.  Clendening, a fast skating and puck moving defenseman, will be counted on to play a key role for this year's team.

Clendening is the only local player to be part of this year's USA team.