Admirals Sign Former Vipers Defencemen Hetnik:

The East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Norfolk Admirals have
signed former Vernon Vipers defenceman Marc Hetnik.

Hetnik finished his fourth and final season with the UMass Minutemen this season, 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 Admirals website:

Admirals Agree To Terms With Three College Free Agents

March 9, 2017/in Press Releases /by Norfolk Admirals

NORFOLK, VA. – The Norfolk Admirals have agreed to terms with three college free agents, the team announced on Thursday.

Marc Hetnik, 24, comes to the Admirals from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. A 6’2” – 192 lbs. defenseman, Hetnik played 125 games over four years in his collegiate career and hails from Brookline, MA.

Tommy Giroux, 24, signs after completing his career at the University of Quebec-Trois-Rivieres. Prior to his Canadian college tenure, he played two seasons in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, splitting his time with the Shawinigan Cataracs, Drummondville Voltigeurs and Blainville-Broisbriand Armada.

His final season of QMJHL action he was the alternate captain of the Armada and in 88 games of CIS (Canadian Interuniversity Sport) Giroux recorded 114 points (51-63). The Quebec, Quebec native stands at 5’8” and weighs 170 lbs.

Vincent Llorca, 25, is a 6’3” – 205 lbs. defenseman that just concluded his fourth year at Laurentian University in Sudbury, Ontario. During his time there he was the captain all four years and was named to the second all-CIS team in 2014-15. Born in France, Llorca has represented his country at both the junior and major international level.

All three players are expected to make their Admirals debut this evening as the team takes on the Elmira Jackals at First Arena in New York. The game will be available to watch on ECHL.TV and at Buffalo Wild Wings on Laskin Road at the Virginia Beach Ocean front, as well as available to listen live on 102.1 FM The Tide.

Hetnik will wear #6, Giroux will wear #70 and Llorca will wear #55.

Sound Tigers Sign Vipers Alumni Nowick:

The American Hockey League Bridgeport Sound Tigers have
signed former Vernon Vipers forward Darren Nowick.

Nowick will join former Vernon Vipers forwards-twins Connor & Kellen Jones who also play with the Sound Tigers.

Nowick started the season with the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Missouri Mavericks before signing with Bridgeport.

After playing four years at Northern Michigan University Nowick signed his first professional contract with the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Missouri Mavericks March 16 2016.

Nowick played two years in Vernon (2010-2012) played in 109 games with the Vipers collected (36-goals-50-assists-86-points).

Darren Nowick's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=93823

This was posted on the Sound Tigers website:

Sound Tigers Sign Darren Nowick to PTO

Courtesy: SoundTigers.com
         
Release: 03/07/2017

The Bridgeport Sound Tigers announced today forward Darren Nowick has agreed to terms on a professional tryout (PTO).

Nowick, 25, recorded 45 points (21 goals, 24 assists) and a plus-26 rating in 57 games with the Sound Tigers’ ECHL affiliate, the Missouri Mavericks, this season. The rookie center is second on the Mavericks in scoring and has points in five of his last seven games.

A native of Long Beach, Calif., Nowick made his professional debut with the Mavericks near the end of last season, logging seven points (two goals, five assists) in 13 contests following a four-year career at Northern Michigan University. He set career highs in goals (14), assists (18) and points (32) as a senior last season, improving his collegiate total to 75 points (34 goals, 41 assists) in 140 games with the Wildcats.

Prior to attending Northern Michigan, Nowick played two seasons in the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) with the Vernon Vipers. The 5’10, 185-pound forward notched 86 points (36 goals, 50 assists) in 109 games and helped Vernon capture the 2011 BCHL Championship.

Vipers "Future Considerations"

Now that the official CJHL/BCHL season is over, you have to wonder if the Vipers will be involved in any off season trades-roster moves?

Looking back at the trades the Vipers made last season, Vernon made several trades regarding "future considerations" Were those trades for cash or actual future considerations/a player to be named later?

I went through all of the Vipers trades from the start of last season. Here is a full list of the Viper trades that took place through out last season regarding future considerations.

30-Aug-16 The Vernon Vipers have acquired the CJHL playing rights to Austin Adamson(96)(F) from the Chilliwack Chiefs in exchange for future considerations

28-Sep-16 The Alberni Valley Bulldogs have acquired the CJHL playing rights to Darren Rizzolo(98)(F) from the Vernon Vipers in exchange for future considerations

21-Oct-16 The Vernon Vipers have transferred the CJHL playing rights to Levi Johnson(97)(F) to the Drumheller Dragons of the AJHL in exchange for future considerations

18-Nov-16 The Youngstown Phantoms have announced they have traded goaltender Darion Hanson to the Vernon Vipers of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL).

23-Nov-16 The Vernon Vipers have acquired the CJHL playing rights to Cameron Trott(97)(D) and future considerations from the Salmon Arm Silverbacks in exchange for the CJHL playing rights to Carter Stephenson(98)(D)

24-Nov-16 The Alberni Valley Bulldogs have acquired the CJHL playing rights to Keith Anderson(97)(F) from the Vernon Vipers in exchange for future considerations

8-Jan-16 The Alberni Valley Bulldogs have acquired the CJHL playing rights to Nic Rasovic(96)(F) from the Vernon Vipers in exchange for future considerations

Oilers Claim Ex Vernon Viper Musico Off Waivers:

The East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Tulsa Oilers have claimed former Vernon Vipers goaltender PJ Musico off waivers from the ECHL Greenville Swamp Rabbits. The Swamp Rabbits released Musico February 28th 2017.

Musico attended the New York Rangers Training Camp in October, was assigned to the American Hockey League Hartford Wolf Pack before joining the Swamp Rabbits October 11th 2016. The Swamp Rabbits traded Musico to the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Fort Wayne Komets before being placed on waivers February 7th 2017. Musico returned to Greenville after signing with the Swamp Rabbits February 10th 2017.

After playing four years of University at Penn State, Musico signed his first professional contract with the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Greenville Swamp Rabbits October 13th 2015 before being traded February 9th 2015 to the ECHL Quad City Mallards. The American Hockey League (AHL) Chicago Wolves signed Musico February 27, 2016 where he would finish the season. Musico would head back to Greenville signing with the Swamp Rabbits July 7, 2016.

Musico attended the Vernon Vipers 2008 Training Camp before being released.

PJ Musico's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=59168

This was posted on the Oilers website:

OILERS CLAIM GOALTENDER MUSICO OFF WAIVERS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 1, 2017

OILERS CLAIM GOALTENDER MUSICO OFF WAIVERS

Second-year pro joins Tulsa’s goaltending fray ahead of weekend road trip.

TULSA, OK – The Tulsa Oilers, proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Winnipeg Jets and AHL’s Manitoba Moose, have claimed former Greenville Swamp Rabbits goaltender P.J. Musico off of waivers, as announced by Head Coach Jason Christie on Wednesday.

Musico, 26, joins the Oilers after playing in three games for the Swamp Rabbits where he posted a 2-1-0 record with a 2.81 goals-against average and .912 save percentage. The second-year pro from Orange, CA also appeared in five games this season with the Fort Wayne Komets. Musico started his pro career in 2015-16 with Greenville, before a midseason trade sent him to the Quad City Mallards.

In 23 combined appearances with Greenville and Quad City during his rookie season, Musico went 13-6-2, with a 2.49 GAA and a .919 save percentage. He also played in one playoff game for the Mallards. The 6’1, 198 lbs. goaltender played four seasons at Penn State University, three of which came after the program transitioned to Division 1.

The Oilers travel to Wichita Friday for the first of nine consecutive road games, including three games in three days this weekend. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:05pm, and the game can be heard on www.tulsaoilers.com and ECHL.TV, with coverage starting at 6:50. Tulsa faces the Thunder again Saturday at INTRUST Bank Arena in Wichita, before traveling to Missouri Sunday afternoon for a 4:05pm tilt with the Mavericks.

BCHL News & Trades:

I found these press releases off team websites, twitter accounts, blogs or online. All Vipers news-trades are posted on this blog as soon as released-announced.

BCHL News & Trades:

Barton Commits To Trail Smoke Eaters:

The Trail Smoke Eaters would like to announce the commitment of 1998-born defenseman, Seth Barton from Kelowna, BC. Barton has played the past two seasons for the Kelowna Rockets of the BC Major Midget League. Last season saw Barton contribute 38-points from the backend for a Rockets team that placed third in the BCMML. Head Coach, Cam Keith commented, “Seth will add size, a big shot from the blueline, and character to our team” Keith added “We are very excited to add a player of Seth’s caliber.” Barton has already had an opportunity to see some action in the BCHL, playing for the Nanaimo Clippers last year. The Smoke Eaters are excited to add another highly-recruited player out of the BC MML to their roster for the upcoming season. The entire organization would like to welcome Seth to the team and look forward to successful seasons to come.

Bulawka Commits To West Kelowna Warriors:

The West Kelowna Warriors Junior ‘A’ Hockey Club is pleased to announce the commitment of forward Max Bulawka (’01) for the 2017/18 season. Bulawka, 16, has spent the previous two seasons with the Pursuit of Excellence Hockey Academy in the Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL).  The Kelowna, BC native played with the Bantam Prep and Elite 15s squads during the 2015/16 season, compiling 20 goals and 55 points in just 32 games played between the two teams. The 6’0”, 170-pound forward spent the 2016/17 season with the Midget Prep team at POE where he finished second in team scoring with 13 goals and 31 points in 30 games played along with 16 penalty minutes. “Max is a great young talent,” expressed Warriors head coach and general manager Rylan Ferster, “For such a young player, he doesn’t panic with the puck and already has a solid 200-foot game, which should translate well into his first year of junior hockey.” The Warriors would like to welcome Max and his family to the Warriors and the community of West Kelowna.

Western Canada Cup Finished For Good:

This year's Western Canada Cup tournament in Penticton will be the last time the top junior hockey teams from the four Western provinces of Canada will face off. The BCHL commissioner John Grisdale has confirmed that the Western Canada Cup will not return next year or any years after that. "The WCC in Penticton was the last of that format," Grisdale said in an email. "At the AGM the BCHL board will approve going back to the Doyle Cup or some other approved final against the AJHL champion." The Vees first secured the WCC as hosts in October 2015, and hosted four teams from each of the Western provinces, including the Chilliwack Chiefs of the BCHL, the Brooks Bandits from the AJHL, the Battlefords North Stars from the SJHL and the Portage Terriers of the MJHL. The WCC was short lived, with just four years having passed since the Nanaimo Clippers hosted the inaugural tournament in 2013. Other hosts include Dauphin, Manitoba in 2014, Fort McMurray, Alberta in 2015 and Estevan, Saskatchewan in 2016. The Vees ended this year's WCC tournament in third place, but defeated the Chiefs for the second western berth in the RBC Cup nationals. The Vees have also won a WCC championship, after defeating the Portage Terriers 4-3 for the title in 2015. No reasons were provided as to why the tournament has been shut down.

Pirko Commits To Nanaimo:

The Nanaimo Clippers are very pleased to announce that Ben Pirko has committed to play for the Team for the 2017-2018 season.  The 1999 born defenceman joins the Clippers after playing the 2016-2017 season for the Avon Old Farms Prep School of the Founders League.  During this past season, the 6’2″ 170lb, Bethesda, Maryland native scored 1 goal and 12 assists for 13 points in 28 games played.  Ben is also committed to play for the NCAA Divison 1 Union College Dutchmen of the ECAC.  We would like to welcome Ben to the Clippers Family and look forward to seeing him on the ice with his new teammates at Training Camp in August.

Glasman & Werenka Commit To Smoke Eaters:

Trail Smoke Eaters supporters should brace themselves for an exciting season as Trail’s recruiting results continue to cash in. Trail committed highly-touted 18-year-old forward Levi Glasman and 17-year-old defenceman Olson Werenka from the Alberta Midget ranks. Glasman is a speedy six-foot-two, 170-pound forward who played for the Red Deer Optimist Chiefs last season in the Alberta AAA Midget Hockey League. Smoke Eater coach and GM Cam Keith scouted Glasman at the Macs AAA Midget Tournament in Calgary where the Red Deer native led Chiefs scorers with four goals and seven points in five games. “You can tell he has all the intangibles to be a pro-hockey player one day,” said Keith. “He shoots, thinks the game, has incredible speed, and willingness to get to areas you don’t see in Midget aged kids.” Glasman led the Optimist Chiefs in scoring with 15 goals and 23 assists, finishing fourth in Alberta league scoring, two points out of top spot. His size and play-making ability are reminiscent of another Red Deer native, Smoke Eaters forward Kale Howarth, and like Howarth did two years ago, Glasman impressed the Smoke Eaters coaching staff at their Spring Camp last month. “He came into spring camp and he looked like a veteran, and you could tell right away that this kid can play in the league and make an immediate impact,” said Keith. The addition of six-foot-three, 200 pound Werenka from the Calgary International Hockey Academy will also bring needed size and offensive prowess to the Smokies backend. “He’s a kid that had a really good year at the CSSHL last year, had 22 points in 28 games, and 123 pims (penalty minutes) so he brings an element of toughness to his game as well,” said Keith. After falling to the Vernon Vipers and their towering and intimidating defence in the playoffs, the Smokies coaching staff looks to beef up the backend in order to kick up the compete level. “We saw how Vernon’s defence were and how they controlled the play in the playoffs, so we knew we needed to get bigger and tougher on the back end, so he (Werenka) is a big piece for that.” Werenka also boasts an exceptional pedigree, as his father Brad Werenka played eight seasons of pro hockey with the Edmonton Oilers, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Calgary Flames and their affiliates in the American Hockey League. The addition of Glasman and former Cariboo Cougars forward Daine Dubois give the Smokies a bounty of talent up front with the expected return of Howarth, Ross Armour, Spencer McLean, Blaine Caton, Andre Ghantous, Ryan Moon, Ryan Murphy, Korbyn Chabot, and Braedon Tuck. Werenka’s commitment along with six-foot-three d-man Seth Barton earlier this week inject size and skill into a Smokies blueline that has only a couple spots up for grabs given the anticipated return of the Smoke Eater veterans. The big question remains in the crease. Linden Marshall’s return looks less likely, which leaves the Smokies searching for an experienced puck stopper to start and a younger backup. While Keith has a good idea of who will fill some of those positions, with camps still set for Whitehorse this month and the Main Camp in August, no position is guaranteed. “You never know who’s going to make your team, like Ryan Moon was never suppose to make it and he bumped out some kids that I had committed to,” said Keith. “So we still take the best 23 players who come into camp, it doesn’t matter if you played here last year, or you have a commitment … you still have to show up.”

Vees Fans Cheer Teams Return:

The Penticton Vees returned home Monday to a warm welcome. Approximately 30 fans waited at the South Okanagan Events Centre as the Vees returned from Cobourg, Ont. the host city of the Royal Bank Cup championship after losing 3-1 to the eventual national champ Cobourg Cougars. The fans wanted to let the team know they appreciated everything they did this season, which ended with 32 playoff games in 64 days. Longtime Vees fan Jon Race came out to say thank you for a great season that saw the Vees win the B.C. Hockey League’s Fred Page Cup. “It’s the least I can do,” said Race. Don Deacon, who became a Vees fan two years ago, said he and his wife wanted to “let them know even if they didn’t win we appreciate what they have done.” “They are still winners in our eyes,” said Deacon, who endured some nervous moments during the post-season, including watching Gabe Bast fire a shot off the post with 90 seconds left in their semifinal loss. Tyler Zanatta said the Vees are their home team. “It’s always good to support them,” he said. “I think they did pretty good. It was pretty disappointing the last game.”Murray Maxwell, a long time fan and Vees dressing room services, said he couldn’t be happier that they won the Fred Page Cup. He wished they could have returned as national champions. Vees captain Nicholas Jones said it was great coming home to the reception. “We’ve had great fan support all year. This just shows the type of fans we have here,” he said. “It’s been an amazing place to play.” Alternate captain Owen Sillinger said the welcome was special to come home to, even after the disappointing finish. Vees president, coach-general manager Fred Harbinson said the reception was awesome. “Whenever we go to other places, it really makes you appreciate what we have here,” he said. “I don’t care what level of hockey it is, what has been built here, I always talk about the culture. A big part of our culture is our fan base, the community itself and I think it shows that they are the type of fans that even if you don’t win the final game, if you play hard and you compete, you do your best, I think they are always there to support our guys.” Jones said the loss to Cobourg was disappointing, but they had a great year with many “win or die games.” “I felt like we left it all out there in the last game,” said Jones. “I felt like I couldn’t give anymore. It’s a good feeling knowing that. It’s difficult to still lose. We have a great group here. I am proud of every one of them.” “I thought we played our best game of the tournament,” said Sillinger. “Hats off to Cobourg. They were very good. I think that we were the best team honestly in the tournament. I think if we play any team in a seven game series, I’m confident.” Starting on Thursday until Sunday, the Vees are hosting their spring camp at the SOEC. There will be 160 players attending with the organization looking to identify players for next season and beyond. Harbinson said part of the camp is about educating players about the program as well as the BCHL. “Our guys have done a good job of identifying the right talent over the last few years, I’m expecting the same this year,” said Harbinson.

Chapman Commits To Spruce Kings:

The Prince George Spruce Kings are very happy to announce the commitment of Spencer Chapman to their roster for the 2017/2018 season. Spencer Chapman is a 1999 born forward who hails from Cochrane Alberta and played last season for the South East Athletic Club Midget AAA Tigers based in Medicine Hat Alberta. Spencer led the Tigers in Alberta Midget Hockey League scoring with 14 goals and 15 assists for 29 points in 34 games played. “Spencer is a player whose compete level is very high. He works hard every shift and has a very good skill set to go along with it. With those two strong attributes, Spencer will be a great fit for our organization. He’s also a great young man whose values are in line with what are required to be a Spruce King” said Spruce Kings General Manager Mike Hawes.

Ghirardosi Commits To Smoke Eaters:

The Trail Smoke Eaters added more local flavour to the mix with the commitment of Montrose native Tyler Ghirardosi. “It’s definitely exciting,” said Ghirardosi. “I had a lot of fun when I AP’d a couple games (with the Smoke Eaters). I’ve seen what everything’s about in the dressing room and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.” The six-foot-two 17-year-old forward brings skill and speed to the Smokies front end but also size and grit. Ghirardosi netted 14 goals and 31 points in an injury-plagued season for the Beaver Valley Nitehawks in the KIJHL, and added 76 minutes in penalties in just 29 games. “We’re extremely excited and honoured to have Tyler as part of our hockey organization,” said Smoke Eater coach and GM Cam Keith. “He possibly could have played for us this year, but I think it was beneficial for him to play in Beaver Valley for another year and earn that experience of being one of the go-to guys.” Ghirardosi shone in the playoffs for the Nitehawks netting 20 points in 20 games on their way to the KIJHL and Cyclone Taylor Cup titles, and in the Keystone Cup in April, he scored six goals and 10 points in six games, as BV lost the final 4-3 in overtime to the Wainwright Bisons. “We know that kids that come from Beaver Valley’s program, their habits and the way they play the game kind of suits the way that we play the game as well, and you saw that with Tyler when he got called up last year, he barely missed a beat,” said Keith. “He fit right in and I played him in top-line situations and he didn’t look out of place.” Ghirardosi played in six games as an AP for the Smoke Eaters and was particularly effective down the stretch for Trail when injury sidelined seven of their starting players. The J. L. Crowe student helped out with two assists in his six appearances, but his poise and effort showed the Smokies’ coach that Ghirardosi was more than ready to play in the BCHL. “He has size, a high hockey IQ, toughness and grit,” said Keith. “But his calmness and his ease of playing in situations where most kids his age would be nervous to play, nothing really affected him. As the game got more physical, Tyler excelled in those situations.” Ghirardosi joins Trail’s Jeremy Lucchini, Rossland’s Ross Armour, and Montrose’s Spencer McLean as part of the local contingent on the Smoke Eaters, an important element for Keith, a Nelson native, and the Smoke Eater staff. “He is a complete player, he really is, and when you tie that in with being a local kid it really puts the ribbon on the present,” added Keith. “We’re just really excited to have him come in and also seeing his family come in here and buy season’s tickets, it just adds to the excitement, and being happy that you can give a local kid this kind of opportunity.”

Former Penticton Vees All-Star Jost To Join Pats?

The Regina Pats are to be the host team for the 2018 Memorial Cup. As such, they have at least some hope of luring F Tyson Jost into their lineup for the 2017-18 WHL season. Jost played this season at the U of North Dakota, then finished up with the NHL’s Colorado Avalanche, which had taken him 10th overall in the 2016 NHL draft. Jost, who turned 19 on March 14, had 35 points, including 16 goals, in 33 games at UND, then added one goal in six NHL games. He also played for Canada at the World Junior Championship, putting up a goal and three assists in seven games. The Pats acquired Jost’s rights from the Everett Silvertips, who had selected him with the seventh overall pick in the 2013 WHL bantam draft. However, judging from a quote from Joe Sakic, the Avalanche’s GM, it could be that Jost is ticketed for the NHL team next season.

Spruce Kings Name Evin New Associate Coach:

The Prince George Spruce Kings are very excited to announce the hiring of Alex Evin as the team’s new Associate Coach. The 30 year old Evin joins the Spruce Kings after having spent the last two seasons as the assistant coach for the Alberni Valley Bulldogs of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL). Prior to that Alex was the assistant coach for two seasons and head coach for one season with Selkirk College of the British Columbia Intercollegiate Hockey League (BCIHL). Originally from Castlegar, B.C., Alex played 198 regular season games over five seasons in the BCHL from 2003 to 2008 for the Powell River Kings, Williams Lake Timberwolves and Penticton Vees. He won the BCHL top goaltender award in 2007/2008 while playing for the BCHL champion Penticton Vees.  After his stellar junior career, Alex earned a scholarship and played four seasons of NCAA division 1 hockey at Colgate University from 2008 to 2012. “Alex is a very impressive young man who will fit well with our core values and culture. Like our head coach Adam, Alex is a young coach who can relate well to our players. He was a tremendous goalie in our league who earned a scholarship with a great NCAA program. His experiences in our league and in NCAA hockey will be a huge benefit to our players. I am looking forward to working with Alex next season as we continue to move the Spruce Kings organization forward” said Spruce Kings General Manager Mike Hawes. “The Spruce Kings are a well respected and historic franchise in the British Columbia Hockey League. I am excited to work with the great people in the organization and build on the success of last season. I am thankful for the opportunity to work in the BCHL for the past two seasons and I am looking forward to a new chapter with the Spruce Kings organization” said Spruce Kings new Associate Coach Alex Evin. Alex Evin will be in Prince George in early August as he settles in and prepares for the team’s main training camp which will begin on Friday August 25th.

Vernon Lakers Alumni Metropolit Leaves HC Bolzano:

Former Vernon Lakers forward Glen Metropolit has left the HCB Foxes for family reasons.

Hockey Club Bolzano-Bozen Foxes is an Italian ice hockey team located in the city of Bolzano, South Tyrol, that plays in the Austrian Hockey League (EBEL).

Metropolit spent the past two seasons with the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL) Adler Mannheim Eagles.  In 49 games last season with Adler Mannheim Metropolit collected (10-goals-17-assists-27-points). Metropolit signed with the Eagles July 29th 2014. The Eagles are an ice hockey team that play in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga, the highest ice hockey league in Germany. The Eagles are based in Mannheim, a city in the north of Baden-Württemberg.

Metropolit has spent the past six seasons overseas playing with four teams (EV Zug, HC Lugano, SC Bern & Adler Mannheim) in two different leagues (NLA & DEL). Metropolit was also Captain for Team Canada the 2014 Spengler Cup.

Metropolit played one season in Vernon (1994-95) with the Vernon Lakers. In 60 regular season games with the Lakers Metropolit lead the team in scoring with (43-goals-74-assists-117-points). Mettropolit was never drafted but played eight seasons in the NHL with seven different teams (Washington, Tampa Bay, Atlanta, St. Louis, Boston, Philadelphia & Montreal).

Glen Metropolit's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=3587

This was posted on the Foxes website:

Glen leaves Metropolitan HC Bolzano

Sunday, 05.Februar 2017-19:38 - the HC Bolzano has lagged behind in the pick of round currently athletic and currently do not meet the hopes of the fans. The Italians have serious problems and therefore now also personnel responded. Veteran Glen brought to Metropolitan, as a savior for the offensive, is no longer running for the South Tyrol.

As he has now communicated HC Bolzano, the contract was dissolved Metropolitan agreed with Glen. The 42-year old Center travels to North America during the breaks of the IIHF and will no longer come back to Bolzano. For family reasons, as it is called in the foxes.

Metropolitan has played 34 games for the Italians and thereby brought it on 4 goals and 15 assists. The veteran could still meet but not the intended role and revealed defensive shortcomings, which was especially at a manageable pace. The-13 in the PlusMinus balance are a point of criticism, but otherwise Metropolitan in the team structure should have folded. The HC Bolzano has the pick of round lost four of the six games and conceded 31 goals. Too much for coach Tom Pokel, the normally prefers a strict defensive system and herannahenden approach for the playoffs now the sleeve must roll up, to get his team competitive.

Gamblers Select Stapley In USHL Draft:

The United States Hockey League Green Bay Gamblers have drafted Vernon Vipers forward Brett Stapley 72nd overall in Round 5 of the 2017 USHL Phase 2 Draft.

Stapley is reported to return to Vernon for a third season. In 101 games with the Vipers Stapley has collected (20-goals-42-assists-62-points).

Brett Stapley's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=201696

This was posted on the Gamblers website:

Gamblers Complete Draft

Green Bay (May 2, 2017) – The Green Bay Gamblers selected five defensemen, eleven forwards and two goaltenders in phase two of the USHL Draft on Tuesday.

With the 12th overall pick, the Gamblers selected defenseman Andy Carroll. A product of the Aberdeen Wings in the NAHL, the Minnesota State recruit appeared in 55 games last season netting 40 points (6 goals, 34 assists).

On the blue line the Gamblers also selected Ryan Verrier (Salisbury PS Crimson Knights), Carver Watson (Chilliwack Chiefs), Michael Underwood (Aston Rebels) and Samuel Kemppainen (Karpat Oulu B).

Up front the Gamblers selected Bobby Dow (Kemptville 73’s), Brett Stapley (Vernon Vipers), Paul Maust (Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Knights), Jackson Pierson (Culver Academy Eagles Prep), Jesse Jacques (Hermantown HS Hawks), Gabe Temple (Detroit Victory Honda 16U), Charles Levesque (Hawkesbury Hawks), John Mittelstadt (Eden Prairie Eagles 14UAA), Kyler Head (New Jersey Titans), Rory Anderson (Calumet HS Copper Kings) and Jackson Sterrett (Skipjacks HC 18U).

Between the pipes, the Gamblers picked Ryan Ullan (USA U17) and Juraj Sklenar (Nitra Jr.).

The players selected in phase one and two of the draft, returning players, and free agents will be in Green Bay June 11 – 15 for the Gamblers Main Try-out Camp at the Resch Center. Stay tuned to gamblershockey.com for more information on the Gamblers Main Camp.

A Closer Look At The Vipers Spring Camp Roster:

I did some homework & found some info on almost all of the new Viper try-outs.  Here is a more in depth look at most of this years Viper try-outs from Spring Camp this past weekend.

Zachary Abenante (D) 2001

From Burnaby, BC Listed at 5'10 170lbs Played this season with the BCMML Vancouver NE Chiefs.

Cruz Goodman (D) 2000

From Whitehorse, YT Listed at 5'9 130lbs Played this season with Pursuit of Excellence

Elijah Havers (D) 2001

From Kaslo, BC Listed at 5'9 154lbs Played this season with Pursuit of Excellence

Justin Miron (D) 1999

From Mirabel, QC Listed at 6'1 168lbs Played this season with College Lionel-Groulx Nordiques

Noah Montague (D) 1999

From Spokane, WA USA Listed at 6'3 185lbs Played this season with Coeur d'Alene Hockey Acd Prep

Gavin Mattey (F) 2001

From Chase, BC Listed at 5'6 140lbs Played this season with the KIJHL Chase Heat

Liam Drager (F) 2000

From Surrey, BC Listed at 5'9 161lbs Played this season with Pursuit of Excellence

Ethan Knutsen (F) 2000

From Edmonton, AB Listed at 5'9 159lbs Played this season with Pacific Coast Academy Prep

Brendan Mongey (F) 1999

From Kamloops, BC Listed at 5'8 154lbs Played this season with KIJHL Kelowna Chiefs

Josh Mead (F) 1998

From Sparta, NJ USA Listed at 5'11 170lbs Played this season with Iowa Wild AAA U18

Alex Lee (F) 1998

From Toronto, ON Listed at 6'0 170lbs Played this season with Upper Canada College

Geoffrey Drought (G) 2000

From Cranbrook, BC Played this season with KIJHL Columbia Valley Rockies

Jordan Wilde (G) 2000

From Kelowna, BC Listed at 5'10 165lbs Played this season with Pursuit of Excellence

Quinn Slezak (D) 2000

From Lethbridge, AB Listed at 5'9 150lbs Played this season with CSSVHL Coeur d'Alene Hockey Acd Varsity

Harrison William Risdon (D) 2000

From Cranbrook, BC Listed at 5'9 161lbs Played this season with KIJHL Kimberly Dynamiters

Timber Lewis (D) 2001

From Terrace, BC Listed at 5'6 128lbs Played this season with CSSHL Pacific Coast Academy Elite 15s

Tyson Feist (D) 2001

From Dawson Creek, BC Listed at 5'9 130lbs Played this season with Pursuit of Excellence

Thomas Spink (D) 1999

From Parksville, BC Listed at 5'11 181lbs Played this season with VIJHL Peninsula Panthers

Patrick Norman (D) 1999

From Seattle, WA USA Listed at 6'3 190lbs Played this season with T1EHL U18 Los Angeles Jr Kings U18

Matt Baird (F) 2001

From Cowichan Bay, BC Played this season with BCMML South Island Royals

Jaryd Hibbert (F) 2000

Played this season with Okotoks Oilers Midget AA

Colum McGauley (F) 2000

From Wilcox, SK Listed at 5'10 157lbs Played this season with KIJHL Nelson Leafs

Carter Eschyschyn (F) 1999

From Kamloops, BC Listed at 5'9 150lbs Played this season with KIJHL Kamloops Storm

Brent Koch (F) 1998

From Canmore, AB Listed at 5'10 148lbs Played this season with KIJHL Golden Rockets, Sicamous Eagles & VIJHL Oceanside Generals

Corey Cunningham (F) 2001

From Prince George, BC Played this season with CSSHL Delta Hockey Academy Elite 15s

Lane Goodwin (F) 2001

From Fort St. James, BC Listed at 5'9 159lbs Played this season with Pursuit of Excellence

Carter Anderson (F) 2001

From Langley, BC Listed at 5'4 121lbs Played this season with Yale Hockey Acaedmy Elite 15s

Nicholas Cherkowski (F) 2000

From Vernon, BC Listed at 6'2 168lbs Played this season with Pursuit of Excellence

Braedyn Funke (G) 1999

From Sherwood Park, AB Listed at 6'2 205 lbs Played this season with CSSHL Coeur d'Alene Hockey Acd Prep

Noah Desouza (G) 2000

From Boulder, CO USA Listed at 6'0 157lbs Played this season with Pursuit of Excellence 16U

Jacob Bourchier (D) 1999

From West Kelowna, BC Played this season with KIJHL Revelstoke Grizzlies

James Hunter (D) 2000

From Wolfville, NS Listed at 5'8 152lbs

Evan Simpson (D) 1999

From High River, AB Listed at 6'3 170lbs Played this season with SMHL Tisdale Trojans

Brayden Leifker-Lloyd (F) 2000

From Spokane, WA USA Listed at 5'10 154lbs Played this season with KIJHL Spokane Braves

Reese Tambellini (F) 2000

From Nelson, BC Listed at 6'1 170lbs Played this season with KIJHL Grand Forks Border Bruins

Ryan Butler (F) 1999

From Maple Ridge, BC Listed at 5'9 159lbs Played this season with Pursuit of Excellence 18U

Ryan Cooper (F) 1998

From Saint Albert, AB Listed at 5'9 170lbs

Eric Noren (F) 2001

From Vernon, BC

Erik Ehrmantraut (F) 1999

Listed at 6'1 154lbs Played this season with SMHL Saskatoon Blazers

Flynn Perry (F) 2000

From Inuvik, NT Listed at 5'11 157lbs Played this season with Okanagan Hockey Academy. White Prep

James Brendeland (G) 1999

Played this season with BCMML North Island Silvertips

Lucas Yesaki (D) 2001

From Victoria, BC Played with BCMML South Island Royals

Will Dow-Kenny (D) 2000

From Abbotsford, BC Listed at 6'0 150lbs Played this season with Yale Hockey Academy Prep

Myles Whiteside (D) 2001

From Kelowna, BC Listed at 5'9 170lbs Played this season with Okanagan Hockey Academy Elite 15

John Jebamani (D) 1999

From Winnipeg, MB Listed at 6'0 165lbs Played this season with MMHL Central Plains Capitals Mdgt AAA

Luca Olivo (D) 1998

From Evesham, NJ USA Listed at 6'0 176lbs Played this season with NA3HL Atlanta Capitals

Isaac Dutka (D) 1999

From West Kelowna, BC Played this season with BCMML Okanagan Rockets

Luke Harvie (F) 2000

From Lethbridge, AB Listed at 5'10 170lbs Played this season with the KIJHL North Okanagan Knights

Jesse Belley (F) 1999

From Strawsburg, CO USA Listed at 5'10 163lbs Played this season with CSSHL Coeur d'Alene Hockey Acd Prep

Ethan Trampuh (F) 1999

From Smithers, BC Listed at 5'10 154lbs Played this season with KIJHL Sicamous Eagles

Christian Sanda (F) 1998

From St. Paul, MN USA Listed at 6'0 172lbs Played this season with NAHL Topeka Roadrunners & Fairbanks Ice Dogs

Kyler Shmigelsky (D) 2000

From Invermere, BC Listed at 5'10 161lbs Played this season with KIJHL Columbia Valley Rockies

Tyson Soobotin (D) 2000

From Grand Forks, BC Listed at 6'0 185lbs Played this season with the KIJHL Grand Forks Boarder Bruins

Mitch Andres (D) 1998

From Brainerd, MN USA Listed at 6'2 190lbs Played this season with USHS Brainerd High

Corey Stormer (F) 2000

From Madison, WI USA Played this season with CSSVHL Milout Mound Varsity

Owen Reith (F) 1999

From Whistler, BC Played with KIJHL Princeton Posse

Marc Pasemko (F) 1999

From Edmonton, AB Listed at 5'9 154lbs Played this season with CSSHL Northern Alberta X-Treme Prep

Dean Whitcomb (F) 1999

From Prince George, BC Listed at 5'10 181lbs Played this season with KIJHL Noth Okanagan Knights

Clark Nelson (F) 2000

From Cranbrook, BC Played with Lethbridge Hurricanes AAA

Ty Tippett (F) 2000

From Calgary, AB Listed at 5'9 161lbs Played this season with KIJHL Sicamous Eagles

Conor Webb (G) 1999

From Vernon, BC Listed at 5'11 170lbs Played this season with KIJHL Noth Okanagan Knights

Lucas Gaudet (D) 2000

From Kelowna, BC Listed at 5'10 161lbs Played this season with CSSHL Okanagan Hockey Academy Prep

Ethan Grover (F) 2000

From Peachland, BC Listed at 5'9 187lbs  Played this season with CSSHL Okanagan Hockey Academy

Tian Rask (F) 1999

From Canada Listed at 5'6 126lbs Played this season with SMHL Beardy's Blackhawks

Jake Gudjonson (F) 1999

From Golden, BC Listed at 5'10 165lbs Played this season with KIJHL Golden Rockets

Yewta Plamondon (F) 2001

From Quesnel, BC Played with the Pursuit of Excellence Elite 15s

Kal Tire Place For Another Decade:

This was posted on the Kiss FM website:

Kal Tire Place For Another Decade

Vernon, BC, Canada / 1075 KISS FM

Pete McIntyre

May 10, 2017

One of Vernon’s best known companies has made a long term commitment to the community.

Kal Tire has extended its naming rights agreement for the Multiplex — or Kal Tire Place — for another ten years.

The City’s Recreation Director, Doug Ross, says the deal also covers the name for the second arena, which has been unofficially dubbed Kal Tire North, as it’s being added at the north end of the current building.

Kal Tire has the ability to propose a name, and then we’ll work with them to come up with something we can agree to,” Ross tells Kiss FM

Ross says the deal is worth $65,000 a year until 2026, when it rises to $70,000, money that’s put back into the 16 year old, 3,000 seat facility.

As part of the deal, the roof of the new arena will be painted orange, a key colour used by the tire company.

They were very open minded about taking on the new facility as well as the existing Kal Tire Place, and for going for the ten year agreement which is a big commitment to our community,” adds Ross.

The original four year sponsorship deal with Kal Tire expired on May 1.

Bears Sign Viper Alumni Weinstein:

The American Hockey League (AHL) Hershey Bears have signed former Vernon Vipers defenceman Steve Weinstein.

After four seasons at Bentley University (2011-2015) Weinstein has spent the past two seasons playing in the American Hockey League & East Coast Hockey League with four different teams. Weinstein spent the 2015-16 season with the East Coast Hockey League Cincinnati Cyclones and the American Hockey League Lake Erie Monsters. This season Weinstein has played with the East Coast Hockey League South Carolina Stingrays.

Weinstein played three seasons in Vernon (2008-2011) in 153 regular season games with the Vipers collected (10-goals-49-assists-59-points).

Steve Weinstein's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=38003

This was posted on the Bears website:

Bears Sign Steve Weinstein to PTO

01/19/2017 - (Hershey, PA- January 19, 2017)-The Hershey Bears have signed defenseman Steve Weinstein to a professional tryout agreement, Vice President of Hockey Operations Bryan Helmer announced today.

Weinstein, 26, has appeared in 32 games this season with Hershey’s ECHL affiliate, the South Carolina Stingrays. The native of Los Angeles, California is South Carolina’s leading defensive scorer, collecting 19 points (three goals, 16 assists) to go along with a plus/minus rating of +15. The second-year pro was acquired by Stingrays on June 3, 2016 from the ECHL’s Cincinnati Cyclones. During his rookie season with Cincinnati, Weinstein posted 22 points (three goals, 19 assists) in 52 games.

The 5-foot-10, 175-pound defender has skated in seven career AHL games, posting two assists. He played three contests with the Springfield Falcons in 2014-15, and dressed for four games with Lake Erie last season.

Weinstein played four seasons of collegiate hockey at Bentley College, skating in 145 games and registering 105 points (14 goals, 91 assists). He served as an alternate captain during his senior season, and was named the Atlantic Hockey Association's (AHA) Best Defenseman during the 2014-15 campaign. Prior to his time in the NCAA, Weinstein helped the Vernon Vipers of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) to three straight championships.

Hershey also announced that defenseman Colby Williams will be away from the team this weekend on personal leave. He will return to the club next week.

Hershey hits the road to battle Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Saturday evening at 7:05 p.m. The game may be heard on the Bears Radio Network. On Sunday, Hershey hosts Lehigh Valley at 5 p.m. for Hometown Heroes Night and Dietz & Watson Dollar Dog Night. 

Day 3 Report From Vipers Spring Camp:

I stopped by Priest Valley Arena this morning to catch three final three games of Spring Camp. Each game-scrimmage consisted of two thirty minute periods with a full ice clean in between periods. A penalty was an automatic penalty shot.

I have had season tickets for the past twenty seven seasons and have been watching Junior hockey in Vernon for close to thirty five years. Here are my thought's from today's Spring Camp.

In the opening game-scrimmage Team Green defeated Team Black 6-4. Team Green jumped out to a 2-0 lead, were up by two goals after the first period. Team Black battled back with two quick back to back goals before taking a 3-2 lead. In the end Team Green held on for the 6-4 victory.

Players I thought stood out-played well

James Johnston (G) 2001 Has played very well at camp this weekend. Played well again this morning.

Brendan Mongey (F) 1999 (1 goal) Caught my eye this weekend and played very well this morning. Showed a lot of hustle, battled hard and competed. Played fairly physical at times, wasn't afraid to back down from laying out some hits. Was Blacks best player.

In the second game-scrimmage Team Gold defeated Team Blue 5-2. It was 3-0 Team Gold after the 1st period before having a 4-1 lead in the 2nd.

Players I thought stood out-played well

#9 Is listed as Jaryd Hibbert but was told it wasn't him playing today. Whoever #9 was had a strong game for Team Blue. Carried the puck often, created-generated chances. Looked good.

Aidan Rysen (D) 2000 I thought played fairly well on the blueline for Team Gold.

Lucas Gaudet (D) 2000 Was another defenceman for Team Gold who I thought was fairly good this morning.

In the third and final game-scrimmage from Spring Camp saw Team White defeated Team Red 5-2. It was 4-0 Team Red after thirty minutes before Team White got on the scoreboard in the 2nd period.

No players really stood out in the final game-scrimmage.

I overheard several people talking, several of these kids will be attending the Penticton Vees Spring Camp next weekend.

Second Report From Day 2 At Vipers Spring Camp:

I stopped by Priest Valley Arena this afternoon-evening to catch two out of the three games. Each game-scrimmage consisted of two thirty minute periods with a full ice clean in between periods. A penalty was an automatic penalty shot.

I have had season tickets for the past twenty seven seasons and have been watching Junior hockey in Vernon for close to thirty five years. Here are my thought's from today's Spring Camp.

In the opening game-scrimmage Team Gold defeated Team Black 5-4. Team Gold jumped out to a 4-1 lead after the 1st period before Team Black made things interesting in the 2nd period-second half.

Players I thought stood out-played well

Ryan Buchan (G) 2001 After Team Black allowed four goals in the 1st period, Buchan replaced Billy Cawthorn to start the 2nd period, only giving up one goal, played very well between the pipes.

Evan Hughes (F) 1999 Battled-played physical, had a strong game up for Team Gold.

In the second game-scrimmage of the evening saw Team Blue defeat Team White 6-1. Team Blue was up 3-0 after the 1st period before scoring three more in the 2nd period. Team White couldn't find the offence, missed on two penalty shots.

Players I thought stood out-played well

Geoffrey Drought (G) 2000 Started the game, played well in net for Team Blue didn't allow a goal through thirty minutes.

Jordan Wilde (G) 2000 Replaced Geoffrey Drought to start the 2nd period, also looked good in goal for Team Blue. Was forced to make some big stops in the second half, stopping two penalty shots.

Cole Cripps (D) 1999 Played very well on the backend for Team White. Played physical, was engaged in the play, didn't back down from the rough stuff, was mixing it up on several different occasions.

Side Notes:

Former Vernon Vipers Head Coach Joe Oliver was in attendance.

The arena was pretty much full for the two games.

The third and final game is at 8pm Team Green vs Team Red

Spring Camp will wrap up tomorrow with three games.

8am Black vs Green
10am Blue vs Gold
12pm White vs Red

Day 2 Report From Vipers Spring Camp:

I stopped by Priest Valley Arena this morning to catch the second day of Vipers Spring Camp. Each game-scrimmage consisted of two thirty minute periods with a full ice clean in between periods. A penalty was an automatic penalty shot.

I have had season tickets for the past twenty seven seasons and have been watching Junior hockey in Vernon for close to thirty five years. Here are my thought's from today's Spring Camp.

In the opening game-scrimmage Team White defeated Team Black 8-6. Team Black opened the scoring, before Team White roared back with four straight goals. It was 4-1 Team White after the first period. Team White was the better of the two teams in the first half, seemed to generate-create lots of offensive chances. In the 2nd period Team Black fought back, battled hard getting to within a goal cutting the deficit to 5-4 before Team White scored to late goals to break the 6-6 tie to come away with the 8-6 victory. Four penalty shots in this game/scrimmage.

Players I thought stood out-played well

Billy Cawthorn (G) 1998 Attended the Vipers Spring Camp & Training Camp last season played the second half of the game and was solid between the pipes. Made some good saves, giving his team a chance to get back in the contest. Looked calm and confident in goal.

Brendan Mongey (F) 1999 Scored a highlight reel goal for Team Black. I didn't really notice him until about halfway through the scrimmage, when he slowly got his game going and looked good down the stretch.

Josh Mead (F) 1998 I thought played well for most of the game.

Ryan Cooper (F) 1998 (2 goals) Was by far the best player on the ice this morning. Had at least two-maybe three good chances in close to record the hat trick, was very dangerous with the puck in the offensive zone. Battled hard down low, was going to the net all morning. Has a quick release, can skate and hold his own along the boards. Very impressive.

In the second game-scrimmage Team Gold defeated Team Green 5-3. Team Green jumped out to a 2-0 lead held the two goal lead heading into the 2nd period-second half of the game. Team Gold scored two quick back to back goals just seconds apart to tie the game before taking their first lead of the morning shortly after. Team Gold would eventually jump out to a two goal lead before Team Green scored to get within a goal but couldn't make the comeback falling 5-3.

Players I thought stood out-played well

James Brendeland (G) 1999 started the game for Team Green was solid between the pipes, didn't surrender a single goal before being replaced by James Johnston in the 2nd period-second half. Brendeland plays his position very well, dosnt give up many if any rebounds. Plays large in goal.

James Johnston (G) 2001 May have gave up five goals but early on to start the 2nd period he was very sharp. Was forced to make several big stops with Team Gold pressing. Quick on his feet, was hard to beat down low. Was very impressed with Team Green's goaltenders.

Jake Gudjonson (F) 1999 (2 goals) Was Team Gold's best player this morning. This kid was all over the rink in the offensive zone. Had several quality chances in and around the net, battled-played hard all scrimmage.

Lucas Gaudet (D) 2000 I thought looked fairly good at times through out the game-scrimmage.

Evan Hughes (F) 1999 Was another forward who caught my eye and stood out at times during today's game.

In the third and final game of the morning-early afternoon Team Blue defeated Team Red 5-4. It was 2-1 Team Blue after the 1st period/first half before jumping out to an early 3-1 lead in the 2nd period.

Players I thought stood out-played well

Corey Cunningham (F) 2001 Was by far the best player on either side of the ice. Was denied on two breakaways, was a force with and without the puck. A very slick skater, who can move up ice in a hurry, has a hard-quick release, sees-reads the ice very well. Was skating circles around several members of Team Red. Created-generated a ton of good opportunities.

Johnny Derrick (G) 2001 Played the entire game, allowed five goals but easily kept Team Red in the contest. Was very sharp-good in the first half, forced into making several key saves. Got lucky on a few plays, got some help from his defence after the puck was lying in the crease on several goal mouth scrambles. Not the biggest goaltender but quick on his feet, likes to come out and challenge. Reads the play very well.

Owen Reith (F) 1999 Looked pretty good at times, has some speed-quickness.

Dean Whitcomb (F) 1999 (2 goals) Has some wheels, scored twice, was one of the more offensive forwards for Team Red. Stood out-played well in the loss.

Side Notes:

Riley Brandt & Jagger Williamson were in attendance for one of the morning games.

Former Vernon Vipers forward Bryce Kakoske was one of the referee's for all three games today.

The arena was pretty much full for all three games-scrimmages. I saw a lot of Junior B coaches-scouts in attendance.

Spring Camp will continue later this afternoon with three games, with the first game-scrimmage starting at 4pm.

4pm Black vs Gold
6pm Blue vs White
8pm Green vs Red

Vipers Lose Trott & Lambert:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Vipers Lose Trott & Lambert

May 20, 2017

by Vernon Vipers

Recent News

The Vernon Vipers found out that they will have to fill two more roster spots going into the 2017-18 season. Both forward Jimmy Lambert and defenceman Cameron Trott accepted NCAA scholarships for next season. While it didn’t come as a surprise to Vipers management or fans, the team was hopeful there might be a chance the two veteran players could be suiting up for the Snakes again next year.

Lambert has been a standout player with the Vipers over the past two seasons posting 34 goals and 36 assists for 80 points. He’ll be heading to the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

Meanwhile, Cameron Trott split this past season with Vernon and Salmon Arm, posting 26 points including 6 goals and had a fantastic playoff run scoring 3 goals and chipping in with 5 points. He will be joining the University of Alaska Anchorage. The Vipers organization would like to wish both players all the best as they continue their careers at the NCAA level.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7DTv4GToaQ

Day 1 Report From Vipers Spring Camp:

I stopped by Priest Valley Arena after work this evening to catch the first day of Vipers Spring Camp. Each game-scrimmage consisted of two thirty minute periods with a full ice clean in between periods. A penalty was an automatic penalty shot.

In the opening game-scrimmage I caught the final eight minutes between Team Black & Team Blue. Team Blue defeated Team Black 5-3. Team Black had a few big kids with good size on their roster.

In the second game-scrimmage Team White defeated Team Green 4-3 in a game-scrimmage where Team White carried the better of the play for most of the game. Team Green's goaltenders saw a lot of rubber-shots, kept their team in the game. Both teams had several kids with good size. The younger brother of former Vernon Vipers forward Matt Saharchuk, Jett Saharchuk is playing for Team White.

Players I thought stood out-played well

Team White:

Reese Tambellini (1 goal) Has some size, can skate & move the puck. Scored a great looking back hand goal that went top shelf.

Ryan Cooper Played very well through out the game, had some chances-opportunities, skated well, played hard through out the scrimmage.

Erik Ehrmantraut Is another kid with some good size, had some looks-chances, played very well in the loss.

Team Green:

Luca Olivo Had a very strong game on the blueline. Looked like a veteran d-man out there, was steady through out the scrimmage, played well in the defensive zone, can handle the puck, sees the ice well. Made several smart plays through out the night.

Christian Sanda Stood out at times, looked good with the puck in the offensive zone.

James Johnston Started in goal for Team Green before being replaced by backup netminder James Brendeland. Johnston is a big kid, covers a lot of the net, plays his position well. Made some big stops through out the game. Dosnt give up many second opportunities, reads the play well.

James Brendeland Played the second half of the scrimmage, also was very sharp between the pipes for Team Green. Made some key saves, keeping this game close down the stretch.

In the third and final game-scrimmage of the night saw Team Gold defeat Team Red 5-4 in a back and fourth game with some good pace. The play-teams were more evenly matched. Both teams had several chances at either ends of the rink. Not a lot of size on either team, compared to the previous two games-scrimmages. Both teams with much smaller rosters. Goaltending wasn't nearly as sharp-good as in the first two games-scrimmages.

Players I thought stood out-played well

Team Gold:

Tian Rask Has some size and skill. Showed some skill in and around the net looked impressive through out the game.

Side Notes:

Day two of Spring Camp will continue Saturday starting at 8am

Former Vernon Vipers forward Bryce Kakoske was one of the referee's tonight.

Riley Brandt's dad was helping out tonight, was one of the coaches tonight.

The arena was pretty much full for all three games-scrimmages. I saw a lot of Junior B coaches-scouts in attendance.

It looks like the Vipers have brought in a lot of good talent for this year's Spring Camp. Lots of good players through out camp.

Here is a look at all six team rosters-lineups:

Team Black:

Ryan Buchan (G) 2001
Billy Cawthorn (G) 1998 (Attended the Vipers Spring Camp last season)
Zachary Abenante (D) 2001
Cruz Goodman (D) 2000
Elijah Havers (D) 2001
Justin Miron (D) 1999
Noah Montague (D) 1999
Lucas Ty Eagle (D) 2002
Gavin Mattey (F) 2001
Justin Scott (F) 2001
Liam Drager (F) 2000
Ethan Knutsen (F) 2000
Brendan Mongey (F) 1999
Josh Mead (F) 1998
Alex Lee (F) 1998
Tyson Lampreau (F) 2001
Michael Dys (F) 2002

Team Blue:

Geoffrey Drought (G) 2000 (Attended the Vipers Spring Camp last season)
Jordan Wilde (G) 2000
Quinn Slezak (D) 2000
Harrison William Risdon (D) 2000
Timber Lewis (D) 2001
Tyson Feist (D) 2001
Thomas Spink (D) 1999 (Attended the Vipers Spring Camp last season)
Patrick Norman (D) 1999
Matt Baird (F) 2001
Jaryd Hibbert (F) 2000
Colum McGauley (F) 2000
Damian Coljee-Fehr (F) 2000
Carter Eschyschyn (F) 1999
Kyle Sherwood (F) 1999
Brent Koch (F) 1998
Corey Cunningham (F) 2001
Lane Goodwin (F) 2001
Carter Anderson (F) 2001
Nicholas Cherkowski (F) 2000

Team White:

Braedyn Funke (G) 1999
Noah Desouza (G) 2000
Jacob Bourchier (D) 1999
James Hunter (D) 2000
Lucas Wood (D) 2001
Cole Cripps (D) 1999
Evan Simpson (D) 1999
Kaeden Patrick (F) 2000
Brayden Leifker-Lloyd (F) 2000
Reese Tambellini (F) 2000
Jett Saharchuk (F) 2000
Ryan Butler (F) 1999
Julien Dewey (F) 1999
Ryan Cooper (F) 1998
Eric Noren (F) 2001
Mason McLeod (F) 2001
Erik Ehrmantraut (F) 1999
Flynn Perry (F) 2000 (Attended the Vipers Spring Camp last season)

Team Green:

James Brendeland (G) 1999
James Johnston (G) 2001
Lucas Yesaki (D) 2001
Will Dow-Kenny (D) 2000
Myles Whiteside (D) 2001
John Jebamani (D) 1999
Luca Olivo (D) 1998
Isaac Dutka (D) 1999
Luke Harvie (F) 2000 (Attended the Vipers Spring Camp last season)
Nicolas Cirelli (F) 2000
Breckin Erichuk (F) 2000
Jesse Belley (F) 1999
Ethan Trampuh (F) 1999
Logan Morris (F) 1999
Nicholas Teale (F) 2002
Colby Feist (F) 2002
Christian Sanda (F) 1998 (Attended the Vipers Spring Camp last season)
Kristopher Zachary Gibson (F) 2001

Team Red:

Johnny Derrick (G) 2001
Benjamin Colvin (G) 1999
Kyler Shmigelsky (D) 2000
Tyson Soobotin (D) 2000
Zach Cunningham (D) 2001
Lucas Kyle Patton (D) 1999
Robert Wallace (D) 2002
Mitch Andres (D) 1998
Corey Stormer (F) 2000
Owen Reith (F) 1999
Kaden Meszaros (F) 2001
Marc Pasemko (F) 1999
Dean Whitcomb (F) 1999
Blain Worthing (F) 2001
Clark Nelson (F) 2000
Tyson Mitchell (F) 2001
Ty Tippett (F) 2000
Will Reimer (F) 2001

Team Gold:

Kyle Hornock (G) 1998
Conor Webb (G) 1999
Adam Johnson (D) 2000 (Attended the Vipers Spring Camp last season)
Aidan Rysen (D) 2000 (Attended the Vipers Spring Camp last season)
Travis Szafrom (D) 2001
Greg Susinski (D) 1999
Austin Joseph Miller (D) 1998
Lucas Gaudet (D) 2000 (Attended the Vipers Spring Camp last season)
Ethan Grover (F) 2000
Kyle Moore (F) 2000
Tian Rask (F) 1999
Ethan Jones (F) 2001
Evan Hughes (F) 1999
Jake Gudjonson (F) 1999
Ethan Schaeffer (F) 2001
Nicholas Bolin (F) 2001
Yewta Plamondon (F) 2001
Brendon Jorssen (F) 2001

Vipers Open Camp:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers open camp

Kevin Mitchell

May 19th, 2017

The Vernon Vipers’ annual spring camp opens Friday at 4 p.m. with a Black vs Blue scrimmage at Priest Valley Arena.

The Vipers, who lost Game 7 in the B.C. Hockey League Interior Conference final to the Penticton Vees, will watch approximately 90 prospects through Sunday afternoon.

“We have six teams and they are coming in from all over B.C., Minnesota, Boston and Washington State,” said Viper head coach/GM Mark Ferner. “There will be some really good prospects and we still have lots of room on our roster.”

Scrimmages also go Friday at 6 p.m. with White battling green and 8 p.m. with Red meeting Gold. Scrimmages go Saturday from 8 a.m. until 1:45 p.m. and again from 4-9:45 p.m. The Sunday games are at 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and noon.

The Vipers just lost key 6-foot-2, 205-pound defenceman Cameron Trott, who signed a scholarship offer with the University of Anchorage Seawolves.

Trott, who turned 20 last month, pocketed three goals and 20 points in 32 games with Vernon last season after being obtained in a trade with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks. The Port Moody product racked up six points in 19 games with the Silverbacks.

The core group, including Brett Stapley, Jagger Williamson, Steven and Chris Jandric, Michael Ufberg, Shane Kelly, Jesse Lansdell and Niko Karamanis, is returning to the Viper den. Ferner said sniper Jimmy Lambert has yet to make a decision on joining the NCAA Alaska-Fairbanks Nanooks this fall or in 2018.

League scheduling meetings are June 9-11 in Vancouver.

Vipers Welcome Prospects To Camp:

This is posted on the Kiss FM website:

Vipers Welcome Prospects To Camp

Vernon, BC, Canada / 1075 KISS FM

Pete McIntyre

May 18, 2017

Vernon Vipers hold their spring prospects camp Friday to Sunday at the Priest Valley Arena.

Assistant coach Kevin Kraus says over 100 prospects — mostly 16 and 17 year olds — will be taking part in scrimmages.

“We’re looking to build off last year. Last year was a good, young, fast paced group that we were able to pull some prospects from for this year. We’re looking for competitive kids that want to play here in the future, whether it’s next season, or two years down the road,” Kraus tells Kiss FM.

Kraus says all of the players have been invited to the camp.

“The majority are 16 and 17 years old. There is a few 15 year olds and a few 18 years olds.”

Kraus says most of the prospects played midget last year, with few who were at Junior B.

He says some of them will be invited to main camp in the fall.

“That’s the goal. We want to get them to main camp to compete against the veterans coming back.”

The public is invited to come watch the games at the Prtiest Valley rink, with Kraus adding, “Bring your winter coat.”

Pederson-Team BC Wins U15 Provincial Tournament:

Vernon Vipers Assistant Coach-Head Scout Kevin
Pederson & Team BC/Male U15 won the 2017 Male U15 Provincial Tournament with a 6-3 victory over Team BC Maroon in the championship game Sunday.

Pederson has been with the Vipers for four seasons (2009-2011 & 2015-present) Pederson will be entering his fifth season as an Assistant Coach-Head Scout with the Vipers next season.

Kevin Pederson's Player-Coaching Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=395541

This is posted on the BC Hockey website:

Team BC White Wins 2017 Male U15 Provincial Tournament

Monday, May 15, 2017

Team BC White won the 2017 Male U15 Provincial Tournament with a 6-3 victory over Team BC Maroon in the championship game on Sunday, May 14, 2017 at the South Okanagan Events Centre in Penticton.  The event featured eight (8) teams made up of the top 160 players who were selected from their performances at region camps earlier in the year.

Jarret Watson (West Kelowna) opened the scoring for Team BC White, scoring with less than a minute to go in the first period. Team BC Maroon would respond in the second period with goals from Jaden Uy (Richmond) and David Wang (Vancouver) to put them ahead 2-1. Team BC White answered back with two (2) goals of their own late in the second period from Desmond Arthurs (Victoria) and Liam Bressette (Langley) as they held a 3-2 lead going into the third period. In the final frame, Team BC White would add three (3) more goals as Keaton Hartness (Terrace), Olen Gelineau (Kamloops), Quinn Paterson (Kelowna) all scored.

Earlier in the day, Team BC Black defeated Team BC Blue 4-3 to take third place.

The BC Hockey Male Program of Excellence was introduced in 1980 with the mandate to systematically identify and train the province's elite-level players for high performance hockey events. The overall objective of the program is to increase the chances of athletes from BC to compete provincially, regionally, nationally and internationally with the ultimate goal being selected to Hockey Canada’s National Junior or National Senior Team.

For more information about BC Hockey, please visit the BC Hockey website at www.bchockey.net or email info@bchockey.net or follow along through social media at www.facebook.com/BCHockeySource, www.twitter.com/BCHockey_Source, www.youtube.com/BCHockeySource or www.instagram.com/BCHockeySource.

BCHL News & Trades:

I found these press releases off team websites, twitter accounts, blogs or online. All Vipers news-trades are posted on this blog as soon as released-announced.

BCHL News & Trades:

Dubois Commits To Smoke Eaters:

The Trail Smoke Eaters are excited to announce the commitment of Cariboo Cougars forward, Daine Dubois for the 2017/18 season. The product of Williams Lake, BC tied for the BC Major Midget scoring title, posting 27 goals and 40 assists this past season. Dubois also led his team in playoff scoring, registering 14 points as the Cougars captured the BCMML League title. Dubois is currently preparing for the Midget National Championship (Telus Cup), being hosted by the Cariboo Cougars, from April 24th to 30th. Smokies Coach, Cam Keith is very pleased that Daine has committed to the Smoke Eaters this coming season, saying, “Daine brings an element of elite skill and scoring ability. His experience in leading his Midget team to a championship and his upcoming Telus Cup experience will help him transition into an immediate impact in the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL). While speaking to his new coach, Dubois relayed his excitement in joining the team. “It’s exciting to be playing in a new spot. I’ve been to Trail a few times and really like the town. I’m looking forward to joining such a successful and historic organization.” Adding players with character and skill, such as Daine’s – along with championship credentials – falls into the culture the Trail Smoke Eaters want to instill in the orgranization. The Smoke Eaters would like to welcome Daine and his family to the city of Trail.

Financial Reasons To Spell End Of Western Canada Cup:

The Western Canada Cup will end after five years where it began — in B.C. Five years ago the Western Canada Cup (WCC) was launched in Nanaimo and it was held for the final time in Penticton, having wrapped up on May 7. B.C. Hockey League commissioner John Grisdale confirmed effective the 2017-18 season that entry in the RBC Cup for B.C. and Alberta will come via the Doyle Cup, while for Saskatchewan and Manitoba, it will be the Anavet Cup. Grisdale said the four Western Canadian Junior Hockey Leagues will finalize moving from all four leagues playing in the WCC to determine the two RBC teams back to the old format of the Doyle and Anavet Cups at the upcoming CJHL meeting. “It was a decision that the other leagues made that they didn’t feel they wanted to continue,” said Grisdale. “It was a profit issue more than anything else. I think at the end of the day, with it not being the end of the year tournament, a lot of expense.” Grisdale said for Penticton to host it was a terrific gesture adding he is quite hopeful that it’s a profitable tournament. He said it was pretty well attended. The WCC total attendance was 28,038 over nine days with the largest crowd being 3,021 between the Vees and Battlefords North Stars. “It ended on a positive note,” said Grisdale. The commissioners of the four leagues had been discussing the future of the tournament for a while, Grisdale said. He added if the other partners feel different about it, it makes it hard to justify. No teams had submitted bids to host the tournament next year. Grisdale said the future of the WCC had been pretty much finalized while Penticton was hosting last week. Having the tournament go for five years was giving it a good shot, according to Grisdale. “Five years is pretty good to see how it was vetting out,” he said. “There was a lot of positives. If it was the end of the year, if it was the last tournament, I think we might have had different results. It would have had more impact.” After Nanaimo hosted the first tournament, the WCC went to Dauphin, Man., in 2014, Fort McMurray in 2015, where the Penticton Vees won and in Estevan, Sask., in 2016.

Gervais Commits To Clippers:

The Nanaimo Clippers are very pleased to announce that Jeremy Gervais has committed to play for the Team for the 2017-2018 season.  The 1999 born defenceman joins the Clippers after playing the past two seasons for the Cariboo Cougars of the British Columbia Major Midget Hockey League.  During the 2016-2017 regular season, the 5’11” – 175 lb Prince George, BC native led all defencemen in BCMML scoring with 15 goals and 34 assists for 49 points in 37 games played.  In the playoffs, Gervais tallied 12 points in 8 games helping the Cougars win the BCMML Championship.  Gervais and his Cougars teammates will be participating in the upcoming Telus Cup Canadian Midget Hockey Championship April 24-30 in Prince George.

BCHL Playoff Attendance Records:

The 2017 BC Ford Dealers Road to the Fred Page Cup BCHL Playoffs featured some of the best hockey and top moments of any recent postseason. And the league’s attendance figures show fans got caught up in the excitement. Playoff-bound BCHL teams combined to attract 138,852 fans over the course of 73 playoff games for an average of 1,902 per game. That is an increase of 23.7 per cent from last season, when just 60 playoff games took place. “Playoffs always bring out the best in our teams and players and this season, that carried over to our fans,” said BCHL commissioner John Grisdale. “With our champions from Penticton going to Game 7 in each round and the Fred Page Cup being decided on an overtime goal, there were plenty of highlights and I’m thrilled so many fans got out to watch.” From the middle of the second round onwards, there were only two crowds that did not reach four figures in size and both those games were within a few bodies of reaching that mark. The largest crowd of the entire postseason came opening night in Round 1 in Wenatchee as 4,300 fans saw the Wild defeat the Prince George Spruce Kings 4-1 on March 4. There were 15 crowds of 3,000 fans or more, and seven of 3,500 or more. Even in some of the league’s smaller buildings, record crowds came to see the BCHL playoffs. The Merritt Centennials drew a season-high 1,080 fans for a March 24 game against Penticton and the Powell River Kings drew a season-high 1,461 in a March 25 game against Victoria.

Head Commits To West Kelowna Warriors:

The West Kelowna Warriors Junior ‘A’ Hockey Club is pleased to announce the commitment of defenseman Wyatt Head (’99) for the 2017/18 season. Head, 18, comes to the Warriors after spending last season with the Okanagan Rockets of the British Columbia Major Midget League (BCMML), where he played in 37 games amassing 12 goals and 39 points to go along with 20 penalty minutes. The 6’3”, 180-pound rearguard is no stranger to the Warriors and the BCHL as he got into eight games as an affiliate player for West Kelowna in the 2016/17 season earning two penalty minutes while also drawing into one playoff game in the Warriors first round series against the Merritt Centennials. “He’s a very good young player that plays well at both ends of the ice,” commented Warriors head coach and general manager Rylan Ferster, “In the games that Wyatt played with us this past season, he was poised with the puck and made good decisions without any hesitation.” The newest member of the Warriors is excited for what lies ahead, “I am super excited to be playing with a great organization in West Kelowna. They’ve had great success in the past and continue to grow the program year after year and I’m excited to be a part of it.” “I think it will definitely help having played quite a few games last year and practicing in West Kelowna,” continued Head on his familiarity with the Warriors and the players from last season, “I know most of the guys so I think that the feeling out process should take less time and hopefully that transfers into me having an impact right away.” The Warriors would like to welcome Wyatt and his family to the Warriors and West Kelowna.

McLean, Burgan & Clark Added To Clippers Marketing Team:

Joining Andrea Trepanier and Darcy Olsen will be Samantha McLean, Kait Burgan and Phil Clark. We are excited to get out into the community and meet our fans and supporters. We will be actively promoting our Clippers Hockey Society donation campaign so watch for news and media posts regarding this exciting campaign. Kait Burgan comes to us from Shaw TV and other media related projects. Phil Clark is the former owner of the Corner Lounge and has been active in downtown Nanaimo business strategies. Samantha McLean is one semester away from her Business Marketing Degree at VIU and has Dean’s List recognition. The Clippers are excited to welcome these dynamic and energetic individuals to the team.

Antisin Steps Down As Silverbacks Head Coach:

Salmon Arm Silverbacks President & General Manager Troy Mick today announced that Head Coach Misko Antisin will be stepping down as Silverbacks Head Coach effective May 30, 2017. “I appreciate the confidence and support of Troy Mick and the Silverbacks ownership group over the last 3 years, however I will be moving back to the USA to pursue professional opportunities down there” stated Coach Antisin. I would like to thank my immediate staff Darrell Hay, Brooks Christensen, Jade Viegas, Heather Sims and Phil Stewart for all of your diligent work and efforts as well as your friendship & support. To the players thank you for giving me your best every night and to the best fans in the league, thank you being patient with the young group we had this past season as I believe you will be very pleased with the team this coming season. It has been an honor to work with such a prestigious and professional organization and I will miss it all. I will also stay on as a consultant to help continue to find the best players available for the Backs down south. “This is a tough day for me personally as I have known Mish for many years however I’m very excited for his future down in the states” says GM Troy Mick. He turned the program around when he agreed to take the team over in November and we will be a better team this year because of it. He is an amazing coach, friend and role model for all players in the game of hockey…he will be missed. The search for Misko’s replacement will begin immediately.

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

Alberni Valley Bulldogs Name Hughes New Head Coach/GM:

The Port Alberni Junior Hockey Society and the Alberni Valley Bulldogs hockey club are pleased to announce that they have hired Mr. Matt Hughes as Head Coach and General Manager of the Alberni Valley Bulldogs. It is a 2-year agreement with an option for a 1-year renewal. Matt comes to the Bulldogs from the highly respected Pursuit of Excellence hockey academy in Kelowna BC where he was the Head Coach of the U18 Midget Prep team. Pursuit’s emphasis on hockey development, academic excellence and community service deemed Matt an excellent fit for the Alberni Valley Bulldogs core beliefs. Matt has helped more than 30 of his past players obtain NCAA Division 1 Scholarships. “Our search for a new head coach saw an overwhelming amount of interest in the Alberni Valley Bulldogs.” says Port Alberni Hockey Society President Ron Paulson. “It speaks volumes to the reputation of the Alberni Valley Bulldogs franchise, and the reputation of the BCHL.” Over 100 resumes were received for the Bulldogs Head Coach/GM position. Prior to the Pursuit of Excellence academy, Matt spent 11 years coaching competitive junior hockey in the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL), North American Hockey league (NAHL), and BCHL. Matt coached the AJHL Grande Prairie Storm as Assistant Coach, Head Coach and General Manager from 2012 to 2014. Matt also served as Assistant Coach and Assistant GM of the NAHL Dawson Creek Rage from 2010 to 2012. Prior to the Rage, Matt served as Head Coach and Assistant GM of the BCHL Salmon Arm Silverbacks. In 2008 & 2009 Matt was the Assistant Coach and Video Coach for the Hockey Canada World U17 program, winning Silver in 2009 and helping develop young player such as Ryan NugentHopkins, Mark Pysyk, and Brendan Gallagher. Matt’s career started in 2003 with coaching stints with the KIJHL Summerland Kings, Columbia Valley Rockies and the BCHL Quesnel Millionaires. “I would like to thank the Bulldogs organization for this opportunity. The Alberni Valley is an amazing community with a knowledgeable and enthusiastic fan base.” said Matt. “I’m looking forward to the work we have ahead of us.” Matt starts work immediately, recruiting for the 2017/18 season. He will be overseeing the Bulldogs Osoyoos spring identification camp along with Assistant Coach Alex Even and the rest of the Alberni Valley Bulldogs scouting staff. Matt’s also burning up the phone lines contacting his network of players and scouts, identifying new players and key prospects.

Eagles Name West New Head Coach:

The Surrey Eagles owner, Chuck Westgard, is shuffling the focus of the Surrey Eagles in order to get it back to where it is meant to be, the RBC Championships. Three years ago after having the Eagles win the “Fred Page Cup” the “ Western Canada Cup” and eventually lose in overtime in the semi-final of the “RBC Cup” In Charlottetown PEI, Westgard hired an outside management group to run the team. He has now decided the time is right to get actively involved again. Westgard, in addition to his successful Real Estate and Development business, has a long history with sports. Westgard played professional baseball in the early 1980s, and is one of the Country”s  most successful girls’ fast pitch coaches, having led his White Rock Renegades teams to 6 National titles. The same goal he has again while being involved with the Eagles. “We saw a big improvement with last years group and now with the core we have coming back we are looking forward to getting back into the mix with the top level teams in the league, and ultimately the Country.” Westgard commented, “We will continue to add good people to our group that share in our common vision, of making this the place the place to play again”. The Surrey Eagles are proud to announce Brandon West as their Head Coach and Director of Player Personnel to a multi-year deal. West has been in the BCHL for the past seven years, the previous three as the Head Coach for the Salmon Arm Silverbacks. The Prince George, B.C. native comes to the Eagles highly recommended from numerous members of the NCAA coaching fraternity and the BCHL. West was ironically coaching in Surrey for the CJHL Top Prospects game in 2015. He also guest coached with Canada West World Junior A Challenge and assisted with the Canadian Pacific U-17 program in 2013. West, along with his staff at the time, aided in the development and progression of many great players in our league including, Angus Redmond (Michigan Tech/Anaheim Ducks), Shane Hanna (Michigan Tech) and Taro Hirose to (Michigan State). “I am honoured and excited to be joining the Surrey Eagles organization. We have an eager group here that is driven to make an impact on and off the ice. After meeting with all the staff, things just lined up in what we are all looking for and we believe we are heading in the right direction. I’d like to thank the ownership and management for this opportunity. My family and I are very excited to be Surrey Eagles.” says the newly appointed coach.  West, 32, will be the successor on the bench to Blaine Neufeld. Neufeld who has been head Coach for the Surrey Eagles for the past three years will move to General Manager of the hockey team for the upcoming season.  “It is something we have been planning to do for some time now and it was all about finding the right person that shared the same vision as myself and that I’d be willing to trust to carry it out” Neufeld says. “We have taken our hits and have continued to get up and are stronger from them, but now we are so close to winning that it was extra important it was the perfect fit, which we feel it is.” The Eagles have a potential 15 skaters returning for the 2017-18 campaign and a very elite recruiting class joining that. “We’ve been hard at work on next years group. I’ve been out of province traveling since February and we’ve found some amazing kids with great character.” Neufeld added.  “It is the core coming back that we have that is certainly very strong and the recruits to add makes us very optimistic that this will be a very successful year in Surrey.” West explains. The Eagles are a few months away from hitting the ice. The team is excited and the surrounding community is as well. There will be a lot of Eagles talk moving into the Summer months. Up next for the Eagles Organization will be their annual Spring Prospects Camp at the South Surrey Arena May 19th – 22nd, which is open to the public.

Silverbacks Buy Hockey School:

The Salmon Arm Hockey School will be under new management for 2017, but promises to keep up the same tradition of skill development and love for the game that has made them one of the longest-running hockey schools in B.C. The owners of the hockey school announced on May 9 they had reached a deal with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks to sell the hockey school to the team effective immediately. All of the hockey school’s 2017 programs will proceed as planned. After 37 years of operating the Enderby/Salmon Arm Hockey School, co-owners Gord Mackintosh, Tom Marsh and Roy Sakaki felt it was time to move on. In 1981, Mackintosh and Sakaki purchased the Enderby Hockey School from the late Rick Anderson. After 20 successful years working in Enderby, the opportunity came up to transfer the hockey school to the new facility in Salmon Arm. The school has operated at the Shaw Centre for the past 17 years. Mackintosh said it makes sense with the ’Backs taking over the school as they can provide some outstanding instruction from their coaching staff, past alumni and local minor hockey coaches. The outgoing hockey school owners say they wish the new owners the very best. A press release from the Silverbacks on the subject said they are excited to be the new owner and operators of the hockey school, and referred to the outgoing owners as “three legends in our community.” “Roy Sakaki, Gord McIntosh and Tom Marsh have been amazing ambassadors to this community for a long time and we are looking forward to continuing on the great hockey school that they started 38 years ago. We will be honouring these three gentlemen during our opening night ceremonies for the start of the 2017-2018 BCHL season,” the release reads. According to the Silverbacks organization, lots of the team’s players and coaches will be helping to develop the hockey school’s young players both on and off the ice. The release says nothing will change for the 2017 hockey school in August, but those interested should stay tuned for news about the future of the school in 2018.