Klimek Leaves Viper Den For Saints:

This was in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Klimek leaves Viper den for Dubuque Fighting Saints

Published: July 24, 2013

The Vernon Vipers’ defensive prospect list just got one name shorter.

Jordan Klimek, who was headed to the Viper den as part of the trade that sent Adam Tambellini to the Fred Page Cup champion Surrey Eagles, is reported to have joined the Dubuque Fighting Saints of the United States Hockey League.

Vernon also collected forwards Mason Blacklock and Demico Hannoun in the Tambellini deal, which saw Michael Roberts, a Vernon native, head to Surrey.

Klimek, a 5-foot-11, 165-pounder, recorded six goals and 23 assists in 52 games with Surrey last season.

With Vernon hosting the national Junior A championships this season, Klimek’s decision left Vipers’ head coach/GM Jason Williamson a little puzzled.

“If you’re hosting a Royal Bank Cup, there’s not much more you can offer,” said Williamson, who noted the Vipers will receive future considerations from Dubuque as part of an agreement between the two leagues.

“Kids have options and kids are jumping to higher levels. If you don’t want be here, we’ll move on.”

Viper camp begins Monday, Aug. 19.

Armstrong’s Dylan Chanter, who played the last two seasons with the Merritt Centennials, is also said to be joining the Saints, who will begin the 2013-14 season overseas by competing in the Junior Club World Cup, an international tournament, Aug. 24-31, in Omsk, Russia.

The 6-foot-3 Chanter registered 33 points (11-22) in 109 career BCHL games, and is committed to the University of New Hampshire. He turns 18 in September.

Meanwhile, former Viper blueliner Kyle Bigos has signed a one-year contract with the San Jose Sharks, and will be assigned to their AHL affiliate in Worcester, Mass. for the coming season.

Bigos graduated this spring after spending the last four years with the NCAA Division 1 Merrimack Warriors. The 24-year-old Upland, Calif. product posted 14-33-47 and 457 penalty minutes in 133 career games with the Warriors.

He was selected 99th overall by the Edmonton Oilers in the 2009 Entry Draft.