Sunday, December 31, 2017

Vipers-Silverbacks Highlight's:

This is posted on the Hockeytube.net website:

Silverbacks 3rd Period Comeback 12-30-17

It was truly a battle between David and Goliath! The Vernon Vipers, the number one team in the BCHL  vs the Salmon Arm Silverbacks who sit in last place in the Interior Division. It was also the last game of 2017 and the final regular season meeting between the two rivals.

The Vernon Vipers jumped out to a quick 2-0 lead over the Silverbacks and limited their opposition to just 11 shots in the first two periods of play. The Vipers even jumped out to a 3-1 lead midway thru the 3rd period.

Not sure if the Snakes took the foot off the gas or the Silverbacks just wanted it more…but the S’backs scored three unanswered goals in a 5 minute span to squeek past the Vipers 4-3. They would hold on to win their 13th game of the season and move 4 points back of the Merritt Centennials.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSglvXEobz8

Silverbacks Complete Comeback 4-3

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Silverbacks Complete Comeback 4-3

December 31, 2017

by Vernon Vipers

Recent News

For the first time all year, the Vipers failed to hold a lead going into the third period as the Salmon Arm Silverbacks erased two, two goal deficits, to defeat Vernon 4-3 at Kal Tire Place.

Last night it took the Vipers 41 minutes to get their first goal, it took just 96 seconds as Jagger Williamson poked home a rebound on the second shift of the game. The Vipers would find themselves on a powerplay a few minutes later and Keyvan Mokhtari let loose with a wrister that beat Reid Cooper to make it 2-0 in the first 7 minutes. The Silverbacks had three powerplays in the period, but the Viper PK was suffocating not allowing much to Anthony Yamnitsky. When pucks got through Yamnitsky was there to shut the door and they didn’t allow any second chances.

The teams went back and forth with odd man rushes but those chances couldn’t net a goal as both Yamnitsky and Cooper were air tight. The Vipers killed off a powerplay and really smothered the Silverbacks offensive opportunities in the last 10 minutes. The Snakes outshout the Backs 12-4 in the middle period and would carry a 2-0 lead into the dressing room after 40 minutes.

There was scoring aplenty in the third period as the Silverbacks pushed the pace early on. They were rewarded with a goal as Nick Unruh tipped home his 6th of the year to make it 2-1. The Vipers responded right after as Connor Marritt scored his 4th of the year to restore the two goal lead. The Vipers found themselves in penalty trouble later on in the period and the Backs took advantage as Grayon Constable potted home a goal to make it 3-2. Rhett Kingston had a strong solo effort that resulted in the tying goal as he went end to end to make it 3-3. While the Backs were up on a 4 on 3 powerplay Tanner Campbell slapped home his 5th goal to give Salmon Arm their first lead of the night. The Vipers had a late push, but couldn’t get it equalized as they’d fall 4-3.

The Vipers remain at home for a Friday night date with the Merritt Centennials

Post game interview's-highlight's,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_yOrAhFxcEw

Norfolk Admirals Release Vipers Alumni Hetnik:

The East Coast Hockey League Norfolk Admirals have released former Vernon Vipers defenceman Marc Hetnik.

Hetnik finished his fourth and final season with the UMass Minutemen last year, before signing his first professional contract as a College free agent with the Admirals March 9th 2017. The Admirals re-signed Hetnik July 24th 2017. Hetnik went pointless in six games this season before being released.

Hetnik picked up one assist in five games with the Admirals last year, played two seasons in Vernon (2011-2013). In 112 regular season games with the Vipers Hetnik collected (6-goals-22-assists-28-points).

Marc Hetnik's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=128531

This was posted on the East Coast Hockey League website:

ECHL Transactions – Nov. 3

November 3, 2017

Following are the ECHL transactions for Friday, Nov. 3, 2017:

CONTRACTED PLAYERS RELEASED (eligible for waivers/waiver claims):

Norfolk:   
                           
Marc Hetnik, D

Saturday, December 30, 2017

Salmon Arm 4 Vernon 3

I have had season tickets for the past 28 years and been following Junior hockey in Vernon for close to thirty five years. I've missed only three home games since 1998-99 season. For anyone who could not attend or watch tonight’s Vipers game here are my thoughts and views from tonight’s game. You may agree or disagree but we all have our own view and opinion on any game we watch. This is my opinion and my thoughts on how I saw tonight’s game. I try to be unbiased and give a fare recap on both sides. Thanks for stopping by & visiting my blog.

I was at tonight's Vipers-Silverbacks game as Salmon Arm defeated Vernon 4-3 in front of 2,496 fans at Kal Tire Place.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: Anthony Yamnitsky
Salmon Arm: Reid Cooper

Before tonight's game Vernon Vipers owner Duncan Wray presented Vipers forward Brett Stapley with a plaque for helping Canada West win the World Junior A Challenge in Truro, NS

1st Period: The Vipers would open the scoring early. Jesse Lansdell setup captain Jagger Williamson who beat Reid Cooper giving Vernon a 1-0 lead at 1:36 Lansdell drew the lone helper. The Snakes carrying the play early. On a delayed penalty, Shane Kelly jumped into the rush, made a nice move inside the circle before being denied in tight by former Coquitlam Express goaltender Reid Cooper. The Vipers would get the games first powerplay of the evening. The Silverbacks needed almost five minutes to record their first shot of the period, while shorthanded. Sam Anzai setup Keyvan Mokhtari who ripped a shot past Reid Cooper giving Vernon a 2-0 lead at 6:26 Anzai with the assist. On the following play, the Backs would get their first powerplay. but unable to capitalize. Two minutes later Vernon would get their second PP of the period. A strong defensive play in front, took away the pass going to Jagger Williamson who had a good look at the open cage. SA would kill off the minor. Just after the penalty expired, Reid Cooper had to be strong, was down and out, somehow managed to keep the puck out on a goal mouth scramble. The Vipers very close to grabbing a three goal lead after a powerplay. Anthony Yamnitsky had to make his first big test of the night, with about six and a half minutes left. The former Wenatchee Wild netminder stood tall, making a tough save off the left wing, with bodies going to the net. Some pushing and shoving after the whistle, as both teams battling hard in front of the goal. On the following play, Shane Kelly somehow missed an open cage on the two on one attack. Reid Cooper come diving across the blue paint, with Kelly shooting high and over the goal, on a missed opportunity. Salmon Arm would get their second man advantage of the night, towards the end of the opening frame. Riley Hayles shot from the point forced Anthony Yamnitsky into making a big stop on the penalty kill. The Snakes would hold off the Backs powerplay and kill off the minor. More pushing and shoving late, as tempers heating up towards the end of the period. A minute after killing off a penalty, the Silverbacks would head back to the powerplay. The Vipers with another solid penalty kill to end the period. It was 2-0 Vernon after 20 minutes of play. I thought the Snakes had a slight edge in play, had the better of the scoring chances. The Silverbacks got off to a slow start, giving up the games opening goal early, were down two but played a little better as the period went on. A bit of a chippy game towards the end of the 1st with both teams getting involved in some scrums after the whistle. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 11-7.

2nd Period: Vernon jumped on the Backs early. A minute into the middle frame, Jimmy Lambert couldn't solve Silverbacks starting goaltender Reid Cooper from the low slot, while Brett Stapley looked to beat Cooper before ringing his shot off the knob of Cooper's goal stick. The Snakes with back to back quality chances inside the opening minute. The Vipers pressing early and often, were all over Salmon Arm. With the S'Backs back on their heels early, the Vipers with a flurry of chances inside the opening few minutes, either couldn't hit the net or were denied by Reid Cooper. Minutes in it looked like former Alberni Valley Bulldog captain Jordan Sandhu had a breakaway. Vernon sprung Sandhu wich looked like a breakaway, before a Salmon Arm defender quickly raced back into the play. Sandhu backed off before setting up Alex Swetlikoff who couldn't beat Reid Cooper down low. The Vipers with all kinds of pressure-zone time, couldn't capitalize on their chances early. More chippy play occurred early after Brett Stapley and former Penticton Vees defender Joseph Leahy took a wack at one another, heading off the ice. Both players were caught and sent to the sin bin. The Backs would get the first powerplay of the period just minutes before the halfway mark. The Vipers with a big penalty kill, would kill off the minor. Shortly after the penalty expired, Connor Marritt with a grade a chance in front, couldn't beat Reid Cooper from in close. Just past the midway mark Vernon would get their first powerplay but unable to capitalize. The Snakes dodge a bullet look to have too many men on the ice with about three and a half minutes left, get away with one. Inside the final minute the Snakes would get a late powerplay, but in the dying seconds, the Silverbacks couldn't capitalize on a two on one attack, ran out of time shorthanded before the final buzzer. It was 2-0 Vernon after 40 minutes of play. It was all Vipers early and often as the Snakes dominated the second period. Vernon jumped on SA off the opening faceoff and poured on the attack for at least the opening five or six minutes. The Vipers with a flurry of chances, had Salmon Arm back on their heels, but in able to capitalize on some good looks-opportunities. It was all Vernon, as the Snakes saw most of the middle frame in the offensive zone. The Silverbacks had all kinds of trouble with the Viper attack-speed. The S'Backs saw most of the frame inside their own end, relied on Reid Cooper to bail them out. Cooper was solid, keeping his team in the contest, making some big stops. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 12-4.

3rd Period: SA would jump on the Vipers early. Rhett Kingston got in behind the Vernon defence, was in alone couldn't beat Vipers starting goaltender Anthony Yamnitsky in close. A big stop by the Vernon netminder, kept this a two goal game just over a minute into the extra frame. Salmon Arm kept pressing and pressing hard, would eventually be rewarded. The Silverbacks battling hard for the puck, behind the Viper goal, won the battle before Nick Unruh beat Anthony Yamnitsky in tight, cutting the Vernon lead to 2-1 at 2:12 Justin Wilson & Grayson Constable drew the helpers. This got the Backs bench fired up and back into the game. The Vipers responded with their fourth line, and less then a minute later, Alex Swetlikoff setup Connor Marritt on a two on one rush, Marritt beat Reid Cooper along the ice, giving Vernon a 3-1 lead at 3:09 regaining the Snakes two goal lead. This goal got the crowd back into the game. Swetlikoff and Coleton Bilodeau collected the assists. Vernon seemed to sit back and play with a two goal lead. Salmon Arm responded and didn't quit. The Silverbacks kept pressing, were carrying the play. Just before the halfway mark the Backs would jump on the powerplay and capitalize. Anthony Yamnitsky was forced into making at least three/four big stops shorthanded before Grayson Constable pounced on the rebound, cutting the Vernon lead to 3-2 at 11:04 Akito Hirose and Nick Unruh with the assists. Yamnitsky who looked disappointed, stayed down on the ice for several seconds after giving up the Silverbacks second goal, took a big skate into the corner boards before the following faceoff. Just 1:33 later the Silverbacks would respond with the game tying goal. Rhett Kingston with a rocket of a shot, beat Anthony Yamnitsky top shelf, tying the game 3-3 at 12:37 Kingston with a huge celebration, giving it to the Viper fans along the glass with a big fist pump. Kingston's goal was unassisted. The Backs bench erupted as Salmon Arm with three third period goals, tied the game and were taking over the contest. Just over two minutes later with a faceoff deep in the SA zone, the referee blew the play dead, awarded Keyvan Mokhtari with an unsportsmanlike penalty and the faceoff moving into the Viper zone. Mokhtari with an undisciplined minor with just over five minutes remaining. Just less then a minute later Salmon Arm would take a penalty, sending both teams to four on four, as the Vipers excape having to kill off the full two minute minor. On the following play the Vipers setup Brett Stapley who beats his defender, rips a quick shot from inside the dots, forces Reid Cooper to close the fivehole, while sitting on the goal line. Jimmy Lambert races in tries to poke the puck through Cooper's pads before the whistle, as Cooper slides back into the net as Vernon comes very close to grabbing the lead. Lambert would be called for slashing on the play on a very questionable call. Mark Ferner and the Viper bench, clearly upset with this call as the fans inside Kal Tire Place let the officials know what they think. The Silverbacks get a late powerplay and capitalize. Rhett Kingston setsup Tanner Campbell whos shot beats Anthony Yamnitsky giving Salmon Arm a 4-3 lead at 16:18 as the Silverbacks bench erupts with their first lead of the night. A dejected Vernon bench looks in awe after blowing a 3-1 lead in the final frame. Kingston drew the only assist. With time winding down, captain Jagger Williamson ripped a shot from the dot/circle that beat Reid Cooper but not the crossbar, as the Vipers come within inches of tying the game. Williamson looking to the rafters in shock. Late in the period Jimmy Lambert gotaway with a check/hit from behind while the Vipers got away with two other obvious penalties, as the referee's were letting them play. The Silverbacks bench up in arms, with the no calls late. Mark Ferner and the Snakes would call a timeout with about two minutes left before getting Anthony Yamnitsky to the bench for the extra attacker with about 1:30 to go. The S'Backs with a strong forecheck, held the Viper offence along the boards, killing off valuable time off the clock, before Scott Atkinson and the Silverbacks call their timeout with about fifty eight seconds remaining. Vernon pressing for the game tying goal, had trouble with the Silverback forecheck. Salmon Arm holding the Vipers & the puck along the wall, winding down the clock as the Snakes in able to really get anything setup. The Backs would eventually clear the zone with time winding down. Jimmy Lambert with one last rush, was held up in the neutral zone, tried passing it off before the buzzer sounded. The Silverbacks poured off the bench, to congratulate Reid Cooper in the 4-3 upset victory. The Backs fans in attendance made a ton of noise, saluting their team in victory. The Vipers looked dejected and disappointed leaving the ice with their heads low. The Silverbacks would raise their sticks, saluting their fans as they made their way off the ice. SA jumped on the Vipers early, were denied on an early breakaway before getting on the board just over two minutes in. The Vipers responded a minute later but Salmon Arm didn't quit, pressed hard and played a strong third period. It was all Silverbacks as Vernon tried sitting on a 3rd period-two goal lead, ran into penalty trouble, couldn't hold off the last place Silverbacks. The S'Backs were by far the better of the two teams, carried the better of the play, fired more pucks to the net, created/generated quality chances and capitalized on their opportunities. SA really got their legs moving, where as Vernon quit skating. The Snakes took their foot off the gas, had very little offensive zone time, struggled offensively to put this game away in the 3rd. Salmon Arm outshot Vernon 14-9.

Top Player's: (Vernon)

Cameron Trott making his home debut after returning to Vernon after the Christmas break. I thought Trott was one of if not the Vipers best defender. Lead the way at both ends of the rink, made some strong plays at the blueline, keeping the puck in the zone, was also very quick at getting shots off from the point. A big addition to this Viper blueline.

Shane Kelly I thought also played very well on the Vernon defence. Kelly jumped into the play, had some chances offensively, was also strong at both ends of the rink. Was aggressive, physical and in the face of most Silverbacks.

Jagger Williamson (1 goal) I thought the Viper captain played very well through out the loss. Really battled, was big on the penalty kill and in the defensive zone. Strong on the wall and with the puck. Made several big plays tonight. Had a great opportunity to tie the game with about two and a half minutes left, but hit the crossbar.

The Viper fourth line as strong/played very well. Alex Swetlikoff (1 assist), Coleton Bilodeau (1 assist) & Connor Marritt (1 goal) created/generated some chances, made things happen, worked hard, battled and opened up the ice at times.

Game Thought's: (Vernon)

I thought the Vipers were the better of the two teams heading into the 3rd. Vernon up 2-0 heading into the final frame, had the edge in play, looked good. I thought the Snakes played very well for the first two periods, looked to sit back in the 3rd, took their foot off the gas. The 2nd period is where Vernon needed to capitalize on their opportunities. The Vipers skated circles around the S'Backs the entire middle frame, come up empty handed. The Vipers with a flurry of chances-good looks, were all over Salmon Arm especially in the first five-six minutes of that 2nd period. Vernon really needed at least one goal in the second frame, had the dreaded two goal lead going into the 3rd.  After Nick Unruh got the Silverbacks on the board-to within a goal the Vipers responded quickly with a strong push back shift from the 4th line, regaining their two goal lead less then a minute later. I thought this would take any life out of the Backs and may be enough for the win. But the Vipers didn't respond and take it too Salmon Arm. Instead the Snakes allowed the Silverbacks back into the game and allowed SA to run the table in the final twenty minutes. The Vipers played a lot of the 3rd in their own end, had troubles creating/generating any kind of offence, ran into penalty trouble. Keyvan Mokhtari has to be smarter in a game like tonight. The games tied and you take an unsportsmanlike penalty with just over five minutes left? A very dumb penalty from a veteran player. The Vipers couldn't contain the Backs in the 3rd and it seemed like whatever was thrown towards the net, went in. Anthony Yamnitsky didn't see a ton of rubber after fourty minutes, didn't have a chance on any of the four goals in the third. The Snakes lost key puck battles-defensive coverage in the final period, that lead to Salmon Arm goals. Vernon quit skating and allowed the Silverbacks to control the tempo of the game in the final twenty minutes. This is a game where the Vipers have to bare down and hold onto and win. Your playing a team last in the Division, who has lost eight straight and have one win in their last eleven games. Your up 2-0 heading into the 3rd, Vernon needs to step on the gas and bury the Silverbacks. No excuses, this is a game where the Vipers need to win! Very disappointing loss! This was a game that the Vipers let slip away. Vernon was basically in control of the score & game until the 3rd period. Whens the last time Vernon gave up four goals in the 3rd or even a period? The Snakes lost earlier this month to last place Coquitlam on home ice. These are games you need to win. Your letting points slip away. I wonder why Josh Latta and Brandon Whistle didn't play for their new teams tonight? Both were scratches. Mark Ferner didnt sound pleased in the post game show on the way home from the game. A large crowd on hand left very disappointed. It seems like the Vipers never seem to do well in front of large crowds no matter what season it is. Over the years it seems like the Vipers struggle in front of large crowds and come up on the short end of the stick on most occasions. With the loss Vernon falls to 26-8-1-4 sit atop the Interior Division & overall standings are only four points up on 2nd place Wenatchee who swept the two games with the Penticton Vees over the weekend. The Wild with two games in hand.

Top Player's: (Salmon Arm)

Rhett Kingston (1 goal & 1 assist) Didn't do much in the first two periods, showed up in the 3rd and played very well. Kingston lead the attack with the game tying goal, before assisting on the game winner. Was really skating, moving the puck in the third, giving the Vernon defence troubles.

Nick Unruh (1 goal & 1 assist) Another Salmon Arm player that never really stood out until the final frame. Got the Silverbacks on the board early into the 3rd, seemed to give the Backs life and momentum.

Reid Cooper (29 saves) Sporting his newly coloured Silverbacks equipment, was very good between the pipes for Salmon Arm. Sitting out last night's contest vs Vernon was back with the team for the upset win tonight. Made some key-big stops through out the game, giving his team a chance to win. Doesn't give up many if any rebounds, bounced back after giving up two early 1st period goals. Was very solid in the middle frame, especially early making some big stops with the Snakes on the attack & pressing.

Game Thought's: (Salmon Arm)

I didn't think the Silverbacks should have had any kind of opportunity to be in tonight's game. Down 2-0 early the S'Backs played ok in the opening period before being outplayed in the 2nd. The Backs were very lucky not to be down three or four goals heading into the 3rd. Reid Cooper made some big saves in that middle frame, keeping this a two goal game and giving his team a chance to try and claw their way back into the game come the final twenty minutes. Give Salmon Arm full credit for not folding the tent and jumping on the Snakes off the opening 3rd period faceoff. Rhett Kingston's early breakaway-Nick Unruh's opening goal early in the 3rd gave the Silverbacks life and then momentum as SA didn't back down, even after giving up a third goal less then a minute after getting on the board. You think this would derail the Backs, but instead Salmon Arm stayed on course, kept battling. The Silverbacks were by far the better team in the 3rd, played with a ton of jump-emotion, seemed to capitalize on their chances. You could see the tides turning in the 3rd as the period continued. Salmon Arm snaps their eight game losing streak and picks up just their fourth win on the road this season. Tonight is the Silverbacks second win in their last twelve games. The Silverbacks get their first win of the season over the Vipers and their first win over the Snakes in their last twelve games. The Silverbacks last win over Vernon was a a 6-1 victory on January 30th 2016. This was the final game of a home & home series this weekend, and the final meeting of the regular season. Salmon Arm went 1-5 vs Vernon this year. A great turnout of Salmon Arm fans tonight, that made the bus trip down. A pat on the back, for making a ton of noise and cheering your team on through out the evening. With the Silverbacks in last place and previously lost eight straight, its great to see the fans coming out on the road to support them. With all teams wearing their dark jersey's at home after Christmas and white jerseys on the road, tonight the Vipers were wearing their third set jerseys with the Silverbacks wearing their home white jerseys. With the win Salmon Arm improves to 13-21-3-0 sit last in the Division are four points back of Merritt and nine points back of West Kelowna.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Tanner Wishnowski (Injured)
Josh Latta
Jack Judson (Injured)

Salmon Arm:

Logan Mostat
Brandon Whistle
Kyle Dumba (Illness)

Energy Player of the Game:

Keyvan Mokhtari (1 goal)

Three Star's:

1st Star: Rhett Kingston (1 goal & 1 assist)
2nd Star: Nick Unruh (1 goal & 1 assist)
3rd Star: Jagger Williamson (1 goal)

Boxscore-Game Summary,

http://bchl.ca/stats/game-summary/8158

Game Report,

https://lscluster.hockeytech.com/game_reports/official-game-report.php?lang_id=1&client_code=bchl&game_id=8158

Text Boxscore,

https://lscluster.hockeytech.com/game_reports/text-game-report.php?lang_id=1&client_code=bchl&game_id=8158

Vernon-Salmon Arm Trade:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Vipers Trade Whistle For Latta

by Vernon Vipers

Recent News

VERNON, B.C.  DECEMBER
30th, 2017

The Vernon Vipers have traded the playing rights of Forward Brandon Whistle to the Salmon Arm Silverbacks in exchange for the playing rights of  Josh Latta.

Latta who is from West Vancouver BC was in his second full season with the Silverbacks.  The 19-year-old has 35 points in 64 career BCHL games.  The 5’11 175 pound product will bring more speed and offence to the Vipers. Latta had four including 3 goals in just 5 games in last year’s playoffs with Salmon Arm.

Whistle was recently acquired in a trade with Bonnyville and had 3 points in 16 games with the Snakes.

The Vipers would like to wish Brandon the best of luck with the Silverbacks and also welcome Josh to the Club. Latta is expected in the line-up sometime next week.

For More Information please contact the Viper Office at 250-542-6022.

This is posted on the Silverbacks website:

S’Backs Acquire Whistle For Latta

December 30, 2017

by sasilverbacks

Recent News

SALMON ARM, DECEMBER 30th, 2017

Just days after making a deal to acquire defenceman Joe Leahy from the Penticton Vees for Marcus Mitchell, Salmon Arm Silverbacks General Manager/Head Coach Scott Atkinson today announced the team has traded 19-year-old forward Josh Latta to the Vernon Vipers for 20-year-old veteran Brandon Whistle.

“Josh was a very good player for us but we are looking to play a bit of a heavier game…A bigger stronger forward fits our game plan more than a smaller speedier guy at this point.”

Whistle who is from West Kelowna BC, played three seasons with the Bonnyville Pontiacs before he joined the Vernon Vipers a month ago. The solid forward has 100 points in 106 career AJHL games. The 6’1 205 pound product is also a former Okanagan Major Midget Rocket who lead that team in scoring in 2014-2015.

The Silverbacks wish Josh all the best with his new team and appreciate his efforts over the past season.

For more information please contact the Silverbacks Hockey Office at 250-832-3856 Ext 109

Scott Atkinson talks about the trade,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=md2N0Yx_V2c

Welcome Back Trotter:

This was posted on the Hockeytube.net youtube page:

Hockeytube.net

Published on Dec 30, 2017

Welcome Back Trotter

Cameron Trott scored once Friday night in his Snakes debut in a 4-0 Viper victory over the Salmon Arm Silverbacks.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4V__5lvQ4-M

Game Preview: Salmon Arm @ Vernon:

Salmon Arm (12-21-3-0) @ Vernon (26-7-1-4) 6pm

Tonight is the sixth and final regular season meeting between the Vernon Vipers & Salmon Arm Silverbacks. The Vipers lead the season series 5-0

Last Game:

Friday, December 29th Vernon defeated Salmon Arm 4-0

Next Game:

Friday, January 5th Merritt @ Vernon
Friday, January 5th Wenatchee @ Salmon Arm

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon is 58-39-11-6 vs Salmon Arm

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon has outscored Salmon Arm 383-369

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 26-17-6-2 at home vs. Salmon Arm

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 26-19-6-3 in Salmon Arm

The Silverbacks are 3-6-0-1 in their last ten games in Vernon

The Vipers are 6-3-0-1 in their last ten games in Salmon Arm

The Vipers last regular season win at home vs. Salmon Arm was a 6-3 victory on Friday, November 3rd 2017

The Silverbacks last regular season win in Vernon was a 5-2 victory on Wednesday, December 9th 2015

The Vipers last regular season win in Salmon Arm was a 4-0 victory on Friday, December 29th 2017

The Silverbacks last regular season win at home vs. Vernon was a 6-1 victory on Saturday, January 30th 2016

Here's a look at this year's schedule vs Salmon Arm

Friday, August 25th Salmon Arm @ Vernon: Exhibition-Silverbacks won 2-1 double overtime
Saturday, August 26th Vernon @ Salmon Arm: Exhibition-Vipers won 4-3
Friday, September 8th Vernon @ Salmon Arm: Vipers won 5-1
Saturday, September 9th Salmon Arm @ Vernon: Vipers won 6-5
Friday, November 3rd Salmon Arm @ Vernon: Vipers won 6-3
Friday, December 8th Vernon @ Salmon Arm: Vipers won 3-1
Friday, December 29th Vernon @ Salmon Arm: Vipers won 4-0
Saturday, December 30th Salmon Arm @ Vernon


Let's take a look at the Vernon Vipers:

The 26-7-1-4 Vernon Vipers are coming off a 4-0 victory Friday in Salmon Arm. Tonight's the first game of a three game home stand, where the Snakes have won three straight and five of their last six home games. Tonight's the second game of a home and home series, and the final regular season meeting vs Salmon Arm. Tonight is the eighth meeting of the season (exhibition & regular season) between the Silverbacks & Vipers. The Snakes have won six of the seven games over the Silverbacks this year. The Vipers enter tonight have won five straight and eight of their last ten games.  Vernon sits atop the Interior Division & overall standings are nine points up on Penticton and six points up on Wenatchee.

Vernon Vipers Roster:

http://bchl.ca/stats/roster/21

Josh Prokop (19-11-30) leads the team lead in goals with nineteen, while Jimmy Lambert (14-30-44) leads the team in points with fourty four.

Cameron Trott played 78 games with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks (2014-2016) was traded to Vernon November 23 2016

Kevin Kraus was an Assistant Coach with the 2013-14 Salmon Arm Silverbacks

Vernon Vipers 2017-18 regular season stats:

Games Played: 38
Wins: 26
Losses: 7
Ties: 4
Overtime Wins: 2
Overtime Losses: 1
Home Record: 13-3-1-1
Road Record: 13-4-0-3
Overtime Record: 2-0-4
Record vs Interior Division: 18-4-0-2
Record vs Island & Mainland Divisions: 8-3-1-2
Record In September: 6-1-0-1
Record In October: 6-3-0-1
Record In November: 7-3-0-2

Record In December: 7-0-1-0
When the Vipers score first: 19-3-0-2
When the opponents score first: 7-4-1-2
Leading after the 1st period: 15-2-0-1
Tied after the 1st period: 4-2-0-3
Trailing after the 1st period: 6-2-1-0
Leading after the 2nd period: 19-0-0-1
Tied after the 2nd period: 7-5-0-0
Trailing after the 2nd period: 0-2-1-3
Out shooting opponents: 20-4-1-2
Out shot by opponents: 6-3-0-2
One goal games: 5-6-1-0
Goals for: 138
Goals against: 78
Standings: 1st Place (Overall)
Longest winning streak: Unbeaten in eight games (6 wins-2 ties)
Longest losing streak: Winless in three games (2 losses & 1 tie)


Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Brett Stapley (99)
Cameron Trott (97)
Jagger Williamson (98)
Jimmy Lambert (97)
Niko Karamanis (98)
Jesse Lansdell (98)
Michael Ufberg (97)
Shane Kelly (97)
Sol Seibel (99)
Chris Jandric (98)
Ty Taylor (99)

Vernon Vipers departed & traded players from last years team:

Austin Adamson (96)
Riley Brandt (96)
Ryan Brushett (98)
Simon Sagissor (97)
Brody Dale (99)
Hunter Zandee (96)
Luke Gingras (98)
Steven Jandric (97)
Cooper Watson (96)
Connor Clouston (96)
Darion Hanson (97)

Vernon's home record vs Salmon Arm this year:

2-0-0-0

Vernon's road record vs Salmon Arm this year:

3-0-0-0

Vernon's scoring leaders vs Salmon Arm this year:

Jimmy Lambert (2-8-10)
Jesse Lansdell (5-5-10)
Brett Stapley (3-4-7)
Jagger Williamson (2-4-6)
Tanner Wishnowski (1-3-4)
Jordan Sandhu (3-1-4)
Josh Prokop (2-2-4)
Michael Ufberg (0-3-3)
Jack Judson (1-2-3)
Alex Swetlikoff (1-2-3)
Coleton Bilodeau (0-2-2)
Keyvan Mokhtari (2-0-2)
Niko Karamanis (0-2-2)
Shane Kelly (0-1-1)
Mitch Andres (0-1-1)
Chris Jandric (1-0-1)
Michael Young (0-1-1)
Cameron Trott (1-0-1)
Sam Anzai (0-1-1)

Anthony Yamnitsky (1-0 Record)
Ty Taylor (4-0 Record-1 Shutout)


Let's take a look at the Salmon Arm Silverbacks:

The 12-21-3-0 Salmon Arm Silverbacks make their third and final regular season visit to Kal Tire Place, are coming off a 4-0 loss to the visiting Vernon Vipers last night. The Silverbacks have lost five straight on the road, last win away from home was a 2-1 victory in Wenatchee November 25th 2017. The Backs are 0-5 vs the Vipers this season,  are winless in eleven straight games vs Vernon. Salmon Arm's last win over Vernon was a 6-1 victory on January 30th 2016. The Silverbacks have lost eight straight, have just one win in their last eleven games. Salmon Arm sits last in the Interior Division are six points back of Merritt and eleven points back of West Kelowna. SA is thirty points back of Division leading Vernon.

Salmon Arm Silverbacks Roster:

http://bchl.ca/stats/roster/20

Rhett Kingston (14-17-31) leads the team in goals with thirteen, & in points with twenty nine.

Troy Mick played with the 1984-85 Vernon Lakers was also an Assistant Coach, Head Coach-GM with the Vernon Lakers-Vipers (1993-2000)-(2005-2006)

Salmon Arm Silverbacks 2017-18 regular season stats:

Games Played: 36
Wins: 12
Losses: 21
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 3
Home Record: 9-9-1-0
Road Record: 3-12-2-0
Goals for: 93
Goals against: 147
Standings: 7th Place (Interior Division)

Salmon Arm Silverbacks Returning Players:

Ryan Hogg (98)
Akito Hirose (99)
Josh Latta (98)
Trey Thomas (99)
Julian Timba (98)
Austin Chorney (00)
Max Wutzke (99)
Justin Wilson (98)
Grayson Constable (98)
Riley Hayles (98)

Salmon Arm Silverbacks departed and traded players from last years team:

Connor Sundquist (97)
Nic Tallarico (98)
Spencer Hora (99)
Marcus Mitchell (98)
Jared Turcotte (97)
Carson Bolduc (96)
Elijiah Barriga (96)
Nathan Iannone (98)
Trevor Ayre (98)
Ryley Booth (96)
Carter Stephenson (98)
Trevin Kozlowski (97)

Salmon Arm's home record vs Vernon this year:

0-3-0-0

Salmon Arm's road record vs Vernon this year:

0-2-0-0

Salmon Arm Silverbacks scoring leaders vs Vernon this year:

Justin Wilson (2-0-2)
Marcus Mitchell (1-1-2)
Rhett Kingston (0-2-2)
Logan Mostat (2-0-2)
Noah Wakeford (1-1-2)
Trevor Adams (0-2-2)
Max Wutzke (0-1-1)
Riley Hayles (1-0-1)
Ryan Hogg (0-1-1)
Trey Thomas (0-1-1)
Akito Hirose (0-1-1)
Grayson Constable (0-1-1)
Tanner Campbell (0-1-1)
Austin Chorney (1-0-1)
Nick Unruh (0-1-1)
Hudson Schandor (1-0-1)

Kyle Dumba (0-2 Record)
Cooper Reid (0-1 Record)

Friday, December 29, 2017

Vernon 4 Salmon Arm 0

Scoring Summary:

1st Period:

No Scoring

2nd Period:

No Scoring

3rd Period:

1:09 VER Jesse Lansdell (10) ASST: Jagger Williamson (24)

2:28 VER Jordan Sandhu (10) ASST: Niko Karamanis (7), Sam Anzai (1)

5:40 VER Josh Prokop (19) ASST: Jesse Lansdell (23)

17:20 VER Cameron Trott (1) ASST: Alex Swetlikoff (7), Jimmy Lambert (30)

Ty Taylor made 24 saves for the win/shutout, while Kyle Dumba made 26 saves in the loss. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 30-24

Boxscore-Game Summary,

http://bchl.ca/stats/game-summary/8154

Game Report,

https://lscluster.hockeytech.com/game_reports/official-game-report.php?lang_id=1&client_code=bchl&game_id=8154

Text Boxscore,

https://lscluster.hockeytech.com/game_reports/text-game-report.php?lang_id=1&client_code=bchl&game_id=8154

Former Vernon Laker Naylor Earns First Win In Clippers Debut:

Former Vernon Lakers forward Darren Naylor picks up his first win in his Clippers coaching debut as the visiting Nanaimo Clippers defeat Powell River 2-1.

Naylor replaced former Vernon Vipers head coach/gm Mike Vandekamp as the new head coach/gm of the Nanaimo Clippers December 21st 2017.

Naylor played parts of one season in Vernon with the 1989-90 Vernon Lakers. In 20 games with the Lakers Naylor collected (8-goals-27-assists-35-points).

Darren Naylor's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=11111

Teams Switch Jersey's Post-Holiday Break:

Reminder - Post-holiday break sees all BCHL home teams switch to dark jersey's, while wearing white jersey's on the road. Teams will revert back come playoffs.

Game Preview: Vernon @ Salmon Arm:

Vernon (25-7-1-4) @ Salmon Arm (12-20-3-0) 7pm

Tonight is the fifth of six regular season meetings between the Vernon Vipers & Salmon Arm Silverbacks. The Vipers lead the season series 4-0

Last Game:

Saturday, December 16th Vernon defeated Trail 5-2
Saturday, December 16th Wenatchee defeated Salmon Arm 10-2

Next Game:

Saturday, December 30th Salmon Arm @ Vernon

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon is 57-39-11-6 vs Salmon Arm

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon has outscored Salmon Arm 379-369

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 26-17-6-2 at home vs. Salmon Arm

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 25-19-6-3 in Salmon Arm

The Silverbacks are 3-6-0-1 in their last ten games in Vernon

The Vipers are 5-4-0-1 in their last ten games in Salmon Arm

The Vipers last regular season win at home vs. Salmon Arm was a 6-3 victory on Friday, November 3rd 2017

The Silverbacks last regular season win in Vernon was a 5-2 victory on Wednesday, December 9th 2015

The Vipers last regular season win in Salmon Arm was a 3-1 victory on Friday, December 8th 2017

The Silverbacks last regular season win at home vs. Vernon was a 6-1 victory on Saturday, January 30th 2016

Here's a look at this year's schedule vs Salmon Arm

Friday, August 25th Salmon Arm @ Vernon: Exhibition-Silverbacks won 2-1 double overtime
Saturday, August 26th Vernon @ Salmon Arm: Exhibition-Vipers won 4-3
Friday, September 8th Vernon @ Salmon Arm: Vipers won 5-1
Saturday, September 9th Salmon Arm @ Vernon: Vipers won 6-5
Friday, November 3rd Salmon Arm @ Vernon: Vipers won 6-3
Friday, December 8th Vernon @ Salmon Arm: Vipers won 3-1
Friday, December 29th Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Saturday, December 30th Salmon Arm @ Vernon


Let's take a look at the Vernon Vipers:

The 25-7-1-4 Vernon Vipers make their third and final regular season visit to the Shaw Centre, are coming off the Christmas break. The Vipers last played December 16th after a 5-2 win over the visiting Trail Smoke Eaters. The Vipers have won four of their last five games in Salmon Arm. Tonight is the seventh meeting of the season (exhibition & regular season) between the Silverbacks & Vipers. The Snakes have won five of the six games over Salmon Arm this year. These two teams will meet again tomorrow night in Vernon. The Snakes enter tonight having won four straight and four of their last five & eight of their last ten games. The Vipers have won three straight away from home & five of their last seven road games. Cameron Trott has left University and returned to the Vipers, will make his season debut tonight vs his former team. Trott will wear #3. Vernon sits atop the Interior Division & overall standings with twenty five wins, are seven points up on Penticton and six points up on Wenatchee.

Vernon Vipers Roster:

http://bchl.ca/stats/roster/21

Josh Prokop (18-11-29) leads the team lead in goals with eighteen, while Jimmy Lambert (14-29-43) leads the team in points with fourty three.

Cameron Trott played 78 games with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks (2014-2016) was traded to Vernon November 23 2016

Kevin Kraus was an Assistant Coach with the 2013-14 Salmon Arm Silverbacks

Vernon Vipers 2017-18 regular season stats:

Games Played: 37
Wins: 25
Losses: 7
Ties: 4
Overtime Wins: 2
Overtime Losses: 1
Home Record: 13-3-1-1
Road Record: 12-4-0-3
Overtime Record: 2-0-4
Record vs Interior Division: 17-4-0-2
Record vs Island & Mainland Divisions: 8-3-1-2
Record In September: 6-1-0-1
Record In October: 6-3-0-1
Record In November: 7-3-0-2

Record In December: 6-0-1-0
When the Vipers score first: 18-3-0-2
When the opponents score first: 7-4-1-2
Leading after the 1st period: 15-2-0-1
Tied after the 1st period: 3-2-0-3
Trailing after the 1st period: 6-2-1-0
Leading after the 2nd period: 19-0-0-1
Tied after the 2nd period: 6-5-0-0
Trailing after the 2nd period: 0-2-1-3
Out shooting opponents: 19-4-1-2
Out shot by opponents: 6-3-0-2
One goal games: 5-6-1-0
Goals for: 134
Goals against: 78
Standings: 1st Place (Overall)
Longest winning streak: Unbeaten in eight games (6 wins-2 ties)
Longest losing streak: Winless in three games (2 losses & 1 tie)


Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Brett Stapley (99)
Cameron Trott (97)
Jagger Williamson (98)
Jimmy Lambert (97)
Niko Karamanis (98)
Jesse Lansdell (98)
Michael Ufberg (97)
Shane Kelly (97)
Sol Seibel (99)
Chris Jandric (98)
Ty Taylor (99)

Vernon Vipers departed & traded players from last years team:

Austin Adamson (96)
Riley Brandt (96)
Ryan Brushett (98)
Simon Sagissor (97)
Brody Dale (99)
Hunter Zandee (96)
Luke Gingras (98)
Steven Jandric (97)
Cooper Watson (96)
Connor Clouston (96)
Darion Hanson (97)

Vernon's home record vs Salmon Arm this year:

2-0-0-0

Vernon's road record vs Salmon Arm this year:

2-0-0-0

Vernon's scoring leaders vs Salmon Arm this year:

Jimmy Lambert (2-7-9)
Jesse Lansdell (4-4-8)
Brett Stapley (3-4-7)
Jagger Williamson (2-3-5)
Tanner Wishnowski (1-3-4)
Michael Ufberg (0-3-3)
Jack Judson (1-2-3)
Jordan Sandhu (2-1-3)
Josh Prokop (1-2-3)
Coleton Bilodeau (0-2-2)
Keyvan Mokhtari (2-0-2)
Alex Swetlikoff (1-1-2)
Shane Kelly (0-1-1)
Niko Karamanis (0-1-1)
Mitch Andres (0-1-1)
Chris Jandric (1-0-1)
Michael Young (0-1-1)

Anthony Yamnitsky (1-0 Record)
Ty Taylor (3-0 Record)


Let's take a look at the Salmon Arm Silverbacks:

The 12-20-3-0 Salmon Arm Silverbacks are coming off the holiday break, last played December 16th lost 10-2 in Wenatchee. The Silverbacks come into action this evening, having lost seven straight and nine of their last ten games. The Backs have lost three straight at home. The Silverbacks are winless in eleven straight games vs Vernon. Salmon Arm's last win over Vernon was a 6-1 victory on January 30th 2016. Salmon Arm sits last in the Interior Division are six points back of Merritt and eleven points back of West Kelowna. SA is twenty eight points back of Division leading Vernon.

Salmon Arm Silverbacks Roster:

http://bchl.ca/stats/roster/20

Rhett Kingston (14-17-31) leads the team in goals with thirteen, & in points with twenty nine.

Troy Mick played with the 1984-85 Vernon Lakers was also an Assistant Coach, Head Coach-GM with the Vernon Lakers-Vipers (1993-2000)-(2005-2006)

Salmon Arm Silverbacks 2017-18 regular season stats:

Games Played: 35
Wins: 12
Losses: 20
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 3
Home Record: 9-8-1-0
Road Record: 3-12-2-0
Goals for: 93
Goals against: 143
Standings: 7th Place (Interior Division)

Salmon Arm Silverbacks Returning Players:

Ryan Hogg (98)
Akito Hirose (99)
Josh Latta (98)
Trey Thomas (99)
Julian Timba (98)
Austin Chorney (00)
Max Wutzke (99)
Justin Wilson (98)
Grayson Constable (98)
Riley Hayles (98)

Salmon Arm Silverbacks departed and traded players from last years team:

Connor Sundquist (97)
Nic Tallarico (98)
Spencer Hora (99)
Marcus Mitchell (98)
Jared Turcotte (97)
Carson Bolduc (96)
Elijiah Barriga (96)
Nathan Iannone (98)
Trevor Ayre (98)
Ryley Booth (96)
Carter Stephenson (98)
Trevin Kozlowski (97)

Salmon Arm's home record vs Vernon this year:

0-2-0-0

Salmon Arm's road record vs Vernon this year:

0-2-0-0

Salmon Arm Silverbacks scoring leaders vs Vernon this year:

Justin Wilson (2-0-2)
Marcus Mitchell (1-1-2)
Rhett Kingston (0-2-2)
Logan Mostat (2-0-2)
Noah Wakeford (1-1-2)
Trevor Adams (0-2-2)
Max Wutzke (0-1-1)
Riley Hayles (1-0-1)
Ryan Hogg (0-1-1)
Trey Thomas (0-1-1)
Akito Hirose (0-1-1)
Grayson Constable (0-1-1)
Tanner Campbell (0-1-1)
Austin Chorney (1-0-1)
Nick Unruh (0-1-1)
Hudson Schandor (1-0-1)

Kyle Dumba (0-1 Record)
Cooper Reid (0-1 Record)

Trott Back With Vipers:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Trott back with Vipers

Kevin Mitchell

Dec. 27, 2017

The Vernon Vipers received a pretty sweet late stocking stuffer as defenceman Cameron Trott has returned to the B.C. Hockey League team.

The 20-year-old Anmore, B.C. product spent the first half of the season with the University of Alaska Anchorage Seawolves in the NCAA. Trott rang up two goals and one assist in 10 games.

Last year in Vernon, the right-handed shot recorded three goals and 20 points in 32 games after being obtained in a trade with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks.

The 6-foot-3, 205-pounder has more than 110 games of BCHL experience and will be a welcome addition to an already solid Viper blueline.

“Any time you can add a player of this calibre without having to subtract from your roster it is a positive for sure,” said Viper head coach Mark Ferner. “Cam is a player we know very well and we are very excited to have him back and in our lineup.

“He wasn’t happy; he was getting scratched. His numbers were good: three points in 10 games. It’s good for us.”

The Vipers had an available roster space with 20-year-old Tanner Wishnowski still on injured reserve. Trott is expected to make his season debut against his former team when the Vipers and Salmon Arm Silverbacks hook up in a home and home series beginning Friday night at the Shaw Centre in Salmon Arm. Game time Saturday at Kal Tire Place is 6 p.m.

Vernon leads the 17-team BCHL with 25 wins and 55 points, while the Silverbacks are last in the Interior with a dozen wins and 27 points.

Meanwhile, the Canadian Junior Hockey League, in partnership with the NHL and Hockey Canada as well as in conjunction with NHL Central Scouting, announced Monday its playing rosters for the upcoming CJHL Prospects Game, Tuesday, Jan. 23, in Mississauga, Ont.,

Forwards Brett Stapley and Josh Prokop were selected from the Vipers for Team West. Stapley has 17 goals and 38 points, while Prokop has 18 goals and 29 points. Stapley helped team Canada West win the recent World Junior A Challenge in Nova Scotia. Max Crozier of the Nanaimo Clippers, Stanislav Demin of the Wenatchee Wild, Jonny Tychonik of the Penticton Vees and Seth Barton of the Trail Smoke Eaters made the team on defence.

Angus Crookshank and Brendan Budy of the Langley Rivermen, Ethan de Jong of the Prince George Spruce Kings and Corey Andonovski of the Chilliwack Chiefs are other forwards from the BCHL.

These players are currently among the top 40 CJHL prospects heading into the 2018 NHL Entry Draft in Dallas.

“We at the CJHL extend our congratulations to each of the players on their selection to compete in the 2018 CJHL Prospects Game in Mississauga,” said CJHL president Brent Ladds.

SNAKE BITES: The Vipers host the Merritt Centennials Friday, Jan. 5 at Kal Tire Place and face the Spruce Kings in the retro game the following night at Civic Arena. Organizers are trying to have NHL referee Tom Kowal of Vernon handle the retro tilt…Newcomer Jake Huculak registered four snipes as the North Okanagan Knights dispatched the Kelowna Chiefs 6-5 in overtime in Junior B play last Friday night at Nor-Val Sports Centre. Evan Loura and Marshall Porteous also scored for the Knights. Huculak converted at 4:45 of overtime, from Jason Scheible.

Thursday, December 28, 2017

Solar Bears Claim Ex Viper Basara Off Waivers:

The East Coast Hockey League Orlando Solar Bears have claimed former Vernon Vipers forward Marcus Basara off waivers from the Jacksonville IceMen.

Basara finished his fourth and final year at the University of Alaska-Fairbanks last season before signing his first professional contract with the East Coast Hockey League Allen Americans August 24th 2017.

Basara started the season with the Americans, never played a game with Allen, was invited to the American Hockey League San Jose Barracuda training camp in September. Basara was released during camp, before returning to the Americans. The Americans traded Basara to Jacksonville October 10th 2017 before the regular season started. Basara never played a game with the IceMen before being placed on waivers.

Basara played parts of the two seasons in Vernon (2010-2012) before being traded along with Connor Hartley & future considerations to the Alberta Junior Hockey League Okotoks Oilers on November, 28th 2011 for Ben Gamache.  Basara would finish his junior career with the West Kelowna Warriors. In 80 games with the Vipers Basara collected (18-goals-27-assists-45-points).

Marcus Basara's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=65270

This was posted on the East Coast Hockey League website:

ECHL Transactions – Nov. 20

November 20, 2017

Following are the ECHL transactions for Monday, Nov. 20, 2017:

WAIVER CLAIMS:

Orlando:                              

Marcus Basara, F from Jacksonville

Stockton Heat Sign Ex Viper Pelley:

The American Hockey League Stockton Heat have signed former Vernon Vipers forward Rod Pelley.

Pelley was invited to the Calgary Flames training camp was assigned to the Heat September 19th 2017.

Pelley has spent the past four seasons as captain with the American Hockey League (AHL) Albany Devils.

On January 23 2017 the first 1,500 fans at the Albany Devils home game received a Rod Pelley bobblehead before the game.

http://www.thealbanydevils.com/jan-23-rod-pelley-bobblehead-enter-to-win/

After four years at Ohio State University Pelley signed a two year entry-level contract with the New Jersey Devils. Pelley would spend five years (2006-2011) with the New Jersey Devils and Lowell Devils before being traded to the Anaheim Ducks in 2011. Pelley has played five seasons in the NHL with New Jersey & Anaheim. In 71 games last season with the Devils Pelley collected (6-goals-7-assists-13-points). Pelley will enter this season his fourth season as captain with Albany.

Pelley played parts of one season in Vernon (2001-2002) On January 10th 2001 the Vipers traded Mark Nelson & Tyler Scofield to Prince George for Josh Ciocco, Rod Pelley & Dan Rossi. Pelley played in 19 regular season games with the Vipers collecting (10-goals-8-assists-18-points).

Rod Pelley's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=11019

This was posted on the Heat website:

Heat announce off-season signings

September 25, 2017

As they prepare for the beginning of training camp, the Stockton Heat announced the signings of forwards Rod Pelley and Brett Findlay and defensemen Kayle Doetzel, Adam Ollas Mattsson and Oleg Yevenko to AHL contracts for the 2017-18 season.

Pelley, 33, joins the Heat after serving the last four seasons as captain of the AHL’s Albany Devils.
Pelley, who had six goals and seven assists in 71 games with Albany in 2016-17, had spent nearly his entire 11-year pro career in the New Jersey organization, including 256 NHL games with the Devils.

Pelley has skated in 491 AHL contests with Albany/Lowell and the Norfolk Admirals, registering 71 goals and 68 assists for 139 points. He originally signed with New Jersey as a free agent out of Ohio State University on July 17, 2006.

Findlay, 24, recorded 10 goals and 14 assists for 24 points in 34 games with the Toronto Marlies last season, his fourth pro campaign.

Findlay has played 88 career contests in the AHL, all with the Marlies, and has tallied 17 goals and 28 assists for 45 points.

Doetzel, 22, made his pro debut with Stockton last season and notched two assists and a plus-6 rating in 56 regular-season games.

Ollas Mattsson, 21, spent most of last season with Djurgardens of the Swedish Hockey League before joining the Heat. A sixth-round draft pick by Calgary in 2014, he picked up one goal and one assist in nine AHL games.

Yevenko, 26, appeared in 49 AHL games for Cleveland last season and notched six assists with a plus-6 rating. A member of the Monsters’ Calder Cup championship team in 2016, Yevenko has one goal and nine assists in 107 career AHL matches.

Sound Tigers Send Vipers Alumni Jones To East Coast Hockey League:

The American Hockey League Bridgeport Sound Tigers have sent former Vernon Vipers forward Kellen Jones to the East Coast Hockey League Worcester Railers.

Jones was entering his second season with the Sound Tigers after playing with three different teams during the 2015-16 season (Missouri Mavericks, Bakersfield Condors & Utica Comets). In 24 games this season with Worcester, Jones has (5-goals-8-assists-13-points).

After four years at Quinnipiac University, Kellen Jones signed his first pro contract with the American Hockey League (AHL) Oklahoma City Barons on April 3rd 2014.

Kellen Jones played four years in Vernon (2006-2010) playing in 154 regular season games with the Vipers collecting (39-goals-134-assists-173-points). Jones is also the all-time franchise assists leader (regular season & playoffs) with 150. Jones was drafted in Round 7 of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft #202 overall by the Edmonton Oilers.

Kellen Jones Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=38013

This was posted on the CTpost.com

By Michael Fornabaio

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

Bridgeport sent forward Kellen Jones to Worcester (ECHL), leaving 16 forwards in camp.

Wednesday, December 27, 2017

Hartford Wolf Pack Release Former Vernon Viper Noonan:

The American Hockey League Hartford Wolf Pack have released former Vernon Vipers defenceman Garrett Noonan.

The Wolf Pack loaned Noonan to the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Greenville Swamp Rabbits October 23rd 2017. In 6 games this season with Hartford Noonan collected (0-goals-2-assists-2-points).

Noonan split last season between the Wolf Pack & Swamp Rabbits, also attended the New York Rangers training camp last year before being assisgned to the Wolf Pack.

After four seasons at Boston University Noonan signed a Entry-Level Deal with the Nashville Predators on April 22nd 2014 also signed an amateur try-out contract (ATO) with the American Hockey League (AHL) Milwaukee Admirals. Noonan has spent the past three seasons playing in the American Hockey League & East Coast Hockey League with Cincinnati, Milwaukee, Hartford & Greenville. Noonan was drafted by Nashville in Round 4 #112 overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft.

Noonan played one season in Vernon (2009-2010) In 58 regular season games with the Vipers Noonan collected (2-goals-16-assists-18-points).

Garrett Noonan's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=48219

This was posted on the Wolf Pack website:

Wolf Pack Weekly, October 30-November 5

Oct 30, 2017

Garrett Noonan – released by the Wolf Pack from AHL contract October 27.

Trott Returns To Vipers:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Trott Returns To Vernon

by Vernon Vipers

Recent News

VERNON, B.C.  DECEMBER 27th, 2017

The Vernon Vipers are pleased to announce the return of Defenceman Cameron Trott to the Hockey Club. The 20 year old spent the first half of the season with the University of Alaska Anchorage in the NCAA.

Trott returns to the Snakes after posting 2 goals and 1 assist in 10 games in the NCAA this season. Last year in Vernon he recorded 3 goals and 17 assists in 32 games.

The 6’3 205 pound product of Anmore BC has over 110 games of BCHL experience and will be a welcomed addition to an already solid Viper blue-line.

Head Coach Mark Ferner is happy to have Trott back in Vernon. “Any time you can add a player of this calibre without having to subtract from your roster it is a positive for sure. Cam is a player we know very well and we are very excited to have him back and in our line-up.”

The Vipers had an available roster space with 20 year old Tanner Wishnowski still on injured reserve.

Trott is expected to make his season debut against his former team when the Vernon Vipers and Salmon Arm Silverbacks hook up in a home and home series beginning Friday in Salmon Arm.

Tickets for Saturday’s return match in Vernon are on sale all week at the Viper Office in Kal Tire Place from 9-4.

For More Information please contact the Viper Office at 250-542-6022.

Ex Viper Stevenson Commits To University Of New Hampshire:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Chase Stevenson has committed to the University of New Hampshire Wildcats.

Stevenson is in his second season with the West Kelowna Warriors, attended the Vipers training camp in August 2016.

Stevenson never played an exhibition game was injured during camp, before being placed on the injured reserve to start the 2016-17 regular season. Stevenson was released early into the 2016-17 regular season. The Warriors signed Stevenson November 9th 2016. In 30 games this season, Stevenson has (7-goals-11-assists-18-points).

Chase Stevenson's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=299156

This was posted on the Warriors website:

NEWS: Stevenson Commits To UNH

October 25, 2017

by trevorm

primaryNews, Recent News

The West Kelowna Warriors Junior ‘A’ Hockey Club is pleased to announce forward Chase Stevenson (’99) has committed to the University of New Hampshire Wildcats for the 2019/20 season.

Stevenson, 18, has played in 52 career BCHL games between the Warriors and the Penticton Vees where he played 3 games as an affiliate player during the 2015/16 season. The West Kelowna, BC native has compiled 13 goals and 28 points to go along with 23 penalty minutes. So far in 16 games this season, Stevenson has tallied 3 goals and 8 points with 8 penalty minutes.

Before joining the Warriors, the 5’11”, 170-pound forward spent parts of two seasons with the Okanagan Rockets of the BC Major Midget League (BCMML) where he scored 19 goals along with 41 points in 26 games from 2015-2017 before the Warriors signed him during the middle of last season.

“Chase is a very complete player and can play any one of the forward positions,” commented Warriors head coach and general manager Rylan Ferster, “His attention to detail in every zone is outstanding and is one of those players that no matter where he plays, he makes his line mates better.”

“I couldn’t be more excited to commit to UNH,” Said the newly committed Stevenson, “After going on my official visit and touring the school, I knew UNH was the spot for me. Right from the campus, to the dorms, to the hockey facilities, UNH offers me all the tools I need to become a better student, hockey player and person.

“It’s combination of great academics and hockey made it an extremely desirable place” continued Stevenson, “I feel that my style of play will fit in really well with Wildcat hockey and that I will be able have a significant impact on helping UNH get back to a national championship. I am thrilled for my future with Wildcat hockey and can’t wait to begin the next stage in my hockey career ”

Stevenson commits to a program in UNH that has been on the up rise and starting the 2017/18 season with a strong 5-1-0 record playing in the Hockey East Conference of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). The team has been led by head coach Dick Umile, who has been at the reigns of the Wildcats for 28 seasons and have a former Warrior forward attending the program currently in Liam Blackburn.

The Warriors return to action with a pair of games this weekend starting on Saturday night for the first game of a season series against the Vernon Vipers at Kal Tire Place for a 6:00 PM face-off. The Warriors travel to the Nicola Valley to take on the Merritt Centennials on Sunday afternoon at 2:00 PM. West Kelowna returns home for action at RLP on Friday, November 3rd against the Penticton Vees. All Warriors games are broadcasted live on the Warriors Internet Network and HockeyTV.com with the Voice of the Warriors, Trevor Miller.

Tuesday, December 26, 2017

Marlies Release Former Vernon Viper Skirving:

The American Hockey League Toronto Marlies have released
former Vernon Vipers forward Todd Skirving. Skirving was invited to the Marlies training camp in September, was released from camp. Skirving will return to the East Coast Hockey League Orlando Solar Bears.

No official press release from the Marlies but Skirving is listed on the Solar Bears roster. In 8 games this season with Orlando Skirving has (2-goals-3-assists-5-points).

Skirving spent the previous four years at Rochester Institute Of Technology (RIT) before signing his first professional contract with the East Coast Hockey League Orlando Solar Bears August 3rd 2017, before being invited to the Marlies training camp in September.

Skirving was recruited by the Vipers played just half a season in Vernon (2010-11) before being traded. The Prince George Spruce Kings traded Ryan Renz to Vernon January 10th 2011 for Todd Skirving & future considerations. In 34 regular season games with the Vipers Skirving collected (4-goals-5-assists-9-points).

Todd Skirving's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=93822

Heat Release Vipers Alumni Strachan:

The American Hockey League Stockton Heat have released former Vernon Vipers defenceman Tyson Strachan.

Strachan was invited to the Arizona Coyotes training camp was released from camp September 24th 2017.

Strachan played last season with the American Hockey League Rochester Americans.

After four years at Ohio State University Strachan has played the past ten seasons with twelve teams in three leagues (Albany River Rats, Las Vegas Wranglers, Peoria Rivermen, St. Louis Blues, Florida Panthers, San Antonio Rampage, Washington Capitals, Hershey Bears, Buffalo Sabres, Minnesota Wild, Iowa Wild & Rochester Americans).

Strachan played one season in Vernon (2002-03) collecting (6-goals-22-assists-28-points) in 56 regular season games with the Vipers.

Strachan was drafted by Carolina in the 5th Round (137th overall) in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft.

Tyson Strachan's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=15420

This was posted on the Heat website:

Flames and Heat Announce Roster Moves

October 2, 2017/in News /by Brandon Kisker

Stockton, Calif. – The Calgary Flames announced today that they have assigned two players to their American Hockey League affiliate: Rasmus Andersson (RD) and Jon Gillies (G).

The Flames have also placed forwards Garnet Hathaway and Luke Gazdic on waivers.

The Heat have released J.T. Barnett, Mark Cooper, Troy Donnay, Carson Dubchak, Joel Lowry, Tyson Strachan and Cliff Watson from their tryouts.

Calgary has 25 players remaining at training camp (2x goalies, 7x defensemen, 16x forwards). These numbers don’t include injured players Dan Pribyl and Marek Hrivik.  With the additions of Gillies and Andersson, Stockton has 28 players remaining at training camp (4x goalies, 9x defenseman, 15x forwards).

Derrick Hiebert's Newly Painted Vipers Mask:

This was posted on the Vipers facebook page:

Derrick Hiebert   ‎Vernon Vipers

December 12

For all you Vernon Vipers Fans, My tribute Goalie mask which i airbrushed recently.

Monday, December 25, 2017

Royals Release Ex Viper D-Man Robertson:

The East Coast Hockey League Reading Royals have released former Vernon Vipers defenceman Sean Robertson.

Robertson started the season with the Royals, signing a tryout agreement September 29th 2017 attended the Royals training camp never played a game before being released, signed with the Southern Professional Hockey League Fayetteville Marksmen in mid October. Robertson played just one game with the Marksmen collecting two assists was either traded or released before signing with Reading October 26 2017 for a second time this season. Robertson picked up one assist in one game with the Royals.

Robertson spent last season with the East Coast Hockey League Utah Grizzlies & Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) Fayetteville FireAntz.

Robertson played In 11 games with Merrimack College during the 2012-13 season before leaving for the University of Guelph. Robertson spent his first six seasons playing for the Victoria Grizzlies before being traded to Vernon in his final year of Junior hockey. On December 12th 2011 the Vipers traded Zach McPhee and future considerations to Victoria for Robertson.  In 31 games with the Vipers Robertson collected (0-goals-4-assists-4-points).

Sean Robertson's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=48356

This was posted on the East Coast Hockey League website:

ECHL Transactions – Oct. 30

October 30, 2017

Following are the ECHL transactions for Monday, Oct. 30, 2017:

CONTRACTED PLAYERS RELEASED (eligible for waivers/waiver claims):

Reading:    
      
Sean Robertson, D

Ex Vernon Viper Calvin Named BCHL Grad Of The Month:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Dallas Calvin has been named the British Columbia Intercollegiate Hockey League’s BCHL Grad of the Month for November.

Calvin is in his third season at Selkirk College. In 14 games this season Calvin has (10-goals-20-assists-30-points).

Calvin was an affiliated player "AP" with the Vipers during the 2012-13 season playing in one game before committing to the Vipers for the 2013-14 season. Calvin left the Vipers on October 5th 2013 after just 11 games for personal reasons before joining the KIJHL Beaver Valley Nitehawks. Calvin re-joined the Vipers after Christmas as an "AP" for the remainder of the season, playoffs & Royal Bank Cup. In 12 games with the Vipers Calvin recorded (3-goals-6-assists-9-points). Calvin didn't return to the Vipers the following season, committed to-played with the Trail Smoke Eaters for the 2014-15 season.  

Dallas Calvin's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=94972

This is posted on the BCHL website:

BCHL Grad of the Month

December 5, 2017

Selkirk College forward Dallas Calvin has been named the British Columbia Intercollegiate Hockey League’s BCHL Grad of the Month for November.

Calvin was nearly unstoppable during the month, picking up points in all eight games he played. He scored four goals and collected nine assists in total, and in the process led the Saints to a 5-2-0-1 record to maintain top spot in the league standings.

The 23-year old continues to sit atop the BCIHL scoring race and has a commanding lead on his competition. His 30 points are 13 more than the league’s next highest scorer, and his 20 assists alone trump all other skaters’ point totals.

Calvin played games over five BCHL seasons, initially as an affiliate player with the Trail Smoke Eaters before signing with Vernon at the beginning of the 2013/14 season. He scored eight points in 11 regular season games as a Viper, but his breakout season came as a 20-year old back with his hometown team in Trail.

He dressed in 32 regular season games for the Smoke Eaters during the 2014/15 campaign, scoring 16 times and picking up 29 assists. His 1.41 points per game average was sixth best in the BCHL that season. He committed to Selkirk College at the conclusion of the season and won a BCIHL championship with the Saints as a rookie in 2016.