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:

Cousins Commits To Cowichan Capitals For 2018-19 Season:

The Cowichan Capitals are excited to announce that they have committed to 2001 born forward Kolton Cousins of Delta Hockey Academy. Cousins played 4 games with the Capitals this season, recording two penalty minutes. “I’m beyond excited to start my junior hockey career with the Cowichan Capitals. During my visit in early February, I felt at home as all the coaching staff and team made myself feel welcome. I’m looking forward to being apart of a team that the community can be proud of on and off the ice” said Cousins. Kolton plays for the Delta Hockey Academy’s Midget Prep team, playing 32 games scoring 6 goals and 12 assists for 18 points. Delta is currently 2nd in the league with a record of 26-7-1.

Seitz Commits To Alberni Valley Bulldogs For Next Season:

The Alberni Valley Bulldogs are pleased to announce that 2000-born forward Nicholas Seitz has committed to join the team for the 2018/19 British Columbia Hockey League season. Seitz is from New York City and currently plays with the P.A.L. Junior Islanders in the U.S. Premier Hockey League’s U18 Division, where he led his team with 11 goals and 24 points in 18 regular season games. In June 2017, Seitz committed to attend Princeton University and suit up for the NCAA Division I Tigers men’s hockey program for the 2020/21 season. “Nick is a highly skilled player with good size and tremendous awareness and offensive instincts,” says Bulldogs head coach Matt Hughes. “I had the opportunity to see him play over our Christmas break at the Mac’s Tournament in Calgary and he jumped out immediately as a high-end BCHL prospect and a great fit for our style of play. Everyone we’ve spoken to who has coached or played with Nick speaks very highly of his work ethic and character, and we’re thrilled he’s chosen to take the next steps in his development as a Bulldog.” “We’re also please to add another player from the Junior Islanders program after the positive impact that Michael Sacco has had on our team this season.” Before joining the Islanders, Seitz spent the previous four seasons with the North Jersey Avalanche youth hockey program, working his way up through the club’s Bantam and U16 teams. After his first U16 season he was selected in the USHL Futures Draft by the Chicago Steel, and in his second year with the team he scored 22 goals and totaled 46 points in 31 games in the T1EHL. “I’m extremely excited about joining the Bulldogs next season and I’m looking forward to making an immediate impact for the team,” says Seitz, who describes himself as a responsible, 200-foot player with a high hockey IQ, strong offensive skills and a good shot. “I’ve always had an interest in playing in the BCHL and Coach Matt is the reason I chose the Bulldogs. I’ve had many great conversations and met him a couple of months ago. I believe he’s a player’s coach and I’ll be fully committed to his system. I want to step in next year and help the Bulldogs have a winning season." Seitz will complete the 2017/18 season with the P.A.L. Junior Islanders and join the Bulldogs for training camp in August.

Lakoduk Commits To Victoria For 2018-19 Season:

The Victoria Grizzlies are pleased to announce the signing of forward Darwin Lakoduk for next season. Lakoduk, who hails from Edmonton, Alberta currently plays for the Victoria Cougars of the VIJHL. The smooth skating forward came to the VIJHL this season to help get exposure in the BCHL. It proved a good decision as he has enjoyed a great rookie season with the Cougars, he currently sits 9th in league scoring with 18 goals, 25 assists and 43 points in 41 games. With numbers like those Lakoduk should fit in with the high power offense of the Grizzlies. “Darwin has worked hard this year and we’ve watched him grow as a player. He has represented the Cougars well and looking forward to working with him next year,” commented Grizzlies Head Coach and GM, Craig Didmon. “I am very excited to commit to the Victoria Grizzlies for this upcoming season. The opportunity to play in a winning environment with a well respected organization like this one is something I’m truly grateful for. Having spent this past season on the island, I couldn’t be happier to continue my hockey journey here in Victoria,” added Lakoduk. That makes three signing over the last three seasons between the Cougars and the Grizzlies. Other current players who were signed from the BC Jr. B pool are; Jordan Guiney (Westhshore Wolves, VIJHL), Nico Somerville (Victoria Cougars, VIJHL), Cam Thomson (Peninsula Panther, VIJHL) Marty Westhaver (Peninsula Panthers, VIJHL) Drayson Pears (Westshore Wolves, VIJHL), and Jarrin Sutton (Kelowna Chiefs, KIJHL). Forwards Lucas Clark and Ethan Nother came to Grizzlies via Junior B in Ontario as well.

World Junior A Challenge Returns To Bonnyville:

The World Junior A Challenge - a showcase of Canadian and international Junior A talent - is returning to Bonnyville, Alta., for the second time in three years when the town hosts the event Dec. 9-15, 2018. The 2018 World Junior A Challenge represents a partnership between Hockey Canada, the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL), and Hockey Alberta, as well as the local host committee and NHL Central Scouting. Similar to previous years, two Canadian teams – Canada East and Canada West – will compete with four international entries for a gold medal in Bonnyville. “Bonnyville was an excellent host to teams, fans, and our partners at the 2016 World Junior A Challenge, and it’s great to be returning there in 2018,” said Dean McIntosh, vice-president of events and properties with Hockey Canada. “Its previous success and strong community support in 2016 resulted in a strong legacy for the community, and we look forward to continuing to support the growth of and development of hockey, and the positive financial impact to the area, with this year’s tournament.” The World Junior A Challenge host committee will look to emulate the success of the 2016 event, which was staged by nearly 150 community volunteers. “The level of support we received in 2016 from the region, funding partners, and volunteers was truly incredible,” said Robb Hunter, co-chair of the local host committee. “This support is the reason our group has the opportunity to bring the elite competition of the World Junior A Challenge back to Bonnyville so quickly, and we are excited to create another memorable event for all participating teams through the continued passion for junior hockey in our community.” Team Canada West claimed its fifth gold medal at the 2017 World Junior A Challenge in Truro, N.S., defeating the United States 5-1 in front of a sell-out crowd at the Rath Eastlink Community Centre. Since the event’s inception in 2006, more than 230 NHL draft picks have played in the tournament, including 36 first-round selections (Beau Bennett, Brock Boeser, Alexander Burmistrov, Dennis Cholowski, Joe Colborne, Kyle Connor, Nikolaj Ehlers, Dante Fabbro, Nikita Filatov, Mikhail Grigorenko, Denis Guryanov, Tyson Jost, Dmitri Kulikov, Evgeny Kuznetsov, Elias Lindholm, Hampus Lindholm, John Moore, Vladislav Namestnikov, Riley Nash, Valeri Nichushkin, Dylan Olsen, David Pastrnak, German Rubtsov, Ilya Samsonov, Jordan Schmaltz, Nick Schmaltz, Jaden Schwartz, Brendan Smith, Evgeny Svechnikov, Vladimir Tarasenko, Kyle Turris, Alexander Wennberg, Andrei Vasilevski, Jakub Vrana, Nail Yakupov and Jakub Zboril). “Every year, the competition at the World Junior A Challenge appears to be stronger and the fan support continues to grow,” said CJHL president, Brent Ladds. “Bonnyville has proven to be a remarkable host city with outstanding community support, and we look forward to working with our partners and the host committee to ensure both players and fans celebrate another memorable tournament.” Of the 12 gold-medal games at the World Junior A Challenge, 10 have featured at least one Canadian team. Team Canada West has captured gold five times (2006, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2017), silver three times (2008, 2009, 2012), and bronze once (2013). Team Canada East has won a medal six times, taking home silver five times (2006, 2007, 2010, 2011, 2016) and bronze once (2008).

Berdal Commits To Capitals For Next Season:

The Cowichan Capitals are excited to announce that they have committed to 2000 born, import defence man,  JJ Berdal for the upcoming season. Berdal stands at 5’8” and weighs in at 141 pounds. He was the leading scorer on his team, notching 24 goals and 26 assists for 50 points in 24 games with the D.C. Everest Evergreens of the Wisconsin Prep Hockey League. He finished as  +42 in plus/minus, scored 5 game winners, and another 8 on the power play. He also lead the Evergreens in scoring the season before with 16 goals and 21 assists for 37 points in 24 games. “I chose Cowichan because I really feel like the style of play fits my game. I am looking forward to helping in the community and on the ice, and look forward to meeting my new teammates this August at camp” said Berdal. In Berdal’s 4 seasons of high school hockey he scored 56 goals and 120 points in 94 games, plus another 8 points in 7 playoff games. He also played for Team Wisconsin in the Upper Midwest High School Elite Hockey League, scoring 9 points in 21 games, second amongst defence men on the team and 8th on the team overall. Berdal has also already earned himself a commitment to Colorado College, the same school that Ty Pochipinski will be heading to in the fall.  By clicking here you can see highlights from a playoff game courtesy of ABC 9 North Central Wisconsin, in which Berdal’s Evergreen’s upset the top seeded Wausau West in playoff action last week, with Berdal scoring the game tying goal late.

Wild Name Cabrera New Account Executive:

The Wenatchee Wild, proud members of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) are pleased to announce the addition of Allyssa Cabrera in the position of Account Executive. Allyssa grew up in the Bay Area of California, but along with her husband and three sons, have called the Wenatchee Valley home for four years. Her energy and attention to detail make her an ideal fit for the Wild organization, whose mission and goal is to operate the top junior hockey franchise, regardless of league or country. Allyssa will be working full-time for the Wild, and will be available in the office during normal business hours to assist fans in not just securing their favorite seats, but ensuring their overall game night experience is one that provides value and satisfaction.

Trail-Cowichan Trade:

The Trail Smoke Eaters have moved forwards Ryan Moon and Daine Dubois to the Cowichan Valley Capitals. This move finalizes a trade made in December for goaltender Adam Marcoux.

Silverbacks Announce 1st Ever Alumni Weekend:

The Salmon Arm Silverbacks are proud to announce the 1st ever Alumni Weekend taking place in Salmon Arm, BC July 20-21, 2018. The Silverbacks have a rich and strong tradition in the BCHL and it was time to make this happen for our Alumni, Fans and Community. The event will start Friday July 20th with a Alumni Hockey game at the Shaw Centre at 6 PM, followed by a dance at the SA Rec Centre featuring Jesse Mast of Salmon Arm at 9 PM. Then on the Saturday July 21st it will be a shot gun start at Shuswap National Golf Course in a 4 man best ball starting at 1:30 PM followed by a dinner and of course…Prizes! The Alumni Game is $10.00 General Admission, the dance is $20.00 General Admission & the golf is $145.00 per player. To purchase or register for the event go to http://www.sasilverbacksalumni.com For more information email us at alumni@sasilverbacks.com

Darby Commits To Trail Smoke Eaters For Next Season:

The Trail Smoke Eaters would like to announce the commitment of Jimmy Darby from North Vancouver. The 6’2” 210-lb defenseman has played the past two seasons for the Vancouver Northwest Giants of the BC Major Midget League, where he helped the Giants reach the playoffs, registering 20 points and 101 penalty minutes in 39 games. Darby, who will be suiting up as a 17-year-old next season, is considered to be one of the top defensive prospects in the province and will be looking to make an immediate impact with the Smoke Eaters. Selected by the Kamloops Blazers (84th overall) in the 2016 WHL Bantam Draft, Darby made the decision to join the Smoke Eaters after affiliating with the club this season and spending some time in the community. “I want to thank my family, coaches and teammates for helping me along the way. I’m beyond excited to join such a high-class organization and wear a Smokies jersey.” Darby said. The Smoke Eaters organization feels that the addition of Darby will help to solidify a backend that will see three 20-year-old players age out at the end of the playoffs. The Trail Smoke Eaters are very excited to have Jimmy join our organization. We look forward to working with him as he pursues securing an NCAA scholarship.

Wilson Commits To Cowichan For 2018-19 Season:

The Cowichan Capitals are excited to announce the commitment of 2001 born forward Luc Wilson of Duncan. Wilson most recently played with the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League’s Nanaimo Buccaneers, where he totalled 38 points in 41 games, including 22 goals. The forward also played 7 games with the Capitals recording one assist. The 38 points was 24th most in the VIJHL, 7th amoung rookies, and 3rd most amoung 2001 born players. Wilson joins ’01 forward Kolton Cousins and ’00 born defenceman JJ Berdal as commits for next season.

Clippers Name Johnson New California Head Scout:

Jay Johnson is originally from Winnipeg, Manitoba. Jay played Junior Hockey in the WHL with the Moose Jaw Warriors and in the MJHL. He then played 3 years Minor Pro with the Fresno Falcons of the WCHL. In 2009 Jay was the driving force and one of the original owners that brought Junior Hockey to Fresno, California, for the first time. He coached the Fresno Monsters of the WSHL for 3 years and has been involved in Minor hockey for more than 25 years. Jay and his wife DeAnna Reside in Fresno, California.

Trail-Alberni Valley Trade:

The Alberni Valley Bulldogs are pleased to announce the acquisition of 1998-born forward Andre Ghantous from the Trail Smoke Eaters, completing the trade that sent Connor Welsh to Trail for future considerations at the BCHL trade deadline on January 10th. Ghantous hails from Glendale, California and spent two seasons with the Smoke Eaters. In his second year with the team, he scored 19 goals and totaled 44 points in 58 regular season games. He went on to score five goals and add nine assists in 15 playoff contests as the Smoke Eaters knocked out West Kelowna and Penticton before falling to the Wenatchee Wild in the Interior Division Finals. Overall, the 19-year old has picked up 33 goals and 71 assists in 140 BCHL regular season and playoff games. “Andre is a tremendous talent who has been a consistent offensive performer over two seasons in our league,” says Bulldogs head coach Matt Hughes. “He was a top player for Trail on their deep playoff run this season and we’re confident that his skill and experience will benefit our group both on and off the ice. Our fans are going to enjoy what Andre brings to our line-up.” Ghantous is no stranger to a number of current Bulldogs, as he played his final season of midget hockey alongside Paul Selleck and Brandon Bergado on the Anaheim Jr. Ducks 18U team. “I’m sad to be leaving Trail but I’m excited for this new opportunity ahead of me for my final year of junior hockey,” says Ghantous. “I’m looking forward to the upcoming season as a Bulldog and getting to know my teammates and the community of Port Alberni.” The Bulldogs are excited to welcome Andre and his family to the Alberni Valley.

Powell River Kings Seek Expansion Of Arena Liquor Sales:

Powell River Kings want to generate more income and make hockey more of an experience for fans. With that in mind, the team is asking to have all of Hap Parker Arena licensed for liquor sales. City of Powell River parks, recreation and culture department brought the liquor sales expansion recommendation to committee of the whole on April 3 to gain council’s support and approve a municipal application to add the west grandstand, upper concourse and Poplar Room to the existing licence, which covers the entire east grandstand. “Right now, the way we have liquor sales in the building is all congested into one corner,” said city director of parks, recreation and culture Ray Boogaards. By allowing liquor everywhere and a portable kiosk for sales on the west side, Kings fans will be provided better customer service, he added. The first move to provide the total entertainment package for fans was the recent installation of a new LED screen for game and event broadcasting, a move that has been met enthusiastically by the hometown crowd. “We're trying to make it more fun,” said Powell River Kings Hockey Society director Joe Mastrodonato. “Hockey is a social evening and that's what we're trying to do.” For some fans, alcohol is part of the social experience at sporting events. “It seems to be where a lot of the arenas are going right now, with a greater area provided for alcohol sales,” said Boogaards. Kings expect expanded alcohol sales will make money for the team, according Mastrodonato. “We wouldn't be doing it if we didn't,” said Mastrodonato. “It's a potential moneymaker.” Under a 2017 agreement with the city, the Kings are the primary vendor of alcohol in the licensed area of Hap Parker Arena. The Poplar Room has been added to the plan, with an access built to join the meeting room located on the main concourse of Powell River Recreation Complex to the area for use by the Kings for VIPs. Two sections on either end of the ice on the west side of the arena will be reserved as non-alcohol seating areas. According to Boogaards, the Kings have had liquor sales under control and there have not been any issues, a point Powell River RCMP attest to. In 2017, police responded to 23 complaints at the recreation complex and none were associated with a Kings' game or liquor service. “As a police officer and a season-ticket holder, I am impressed with the Kings’ organization and the professionalism displayed as a liquor-licence holder,” said Powell River RCMP staff sergeant Rod Wiebe. “Liquor service standards are key to avoiding problems and given the Kings' track record, I would not predict that this expansion will require extra policing resources.”