This is posted on the Vernon Matters website:
Vipers open BCHL camp
Aug 19, 2019
The Vernon Vipers training camp gets underway today with hopefuls trying to make the team.
One prominent new face is Jason McKee who has taken over the coach and general manager roles.
McKee told Vernon Matters that the team has a good core of returning players along with some new young players coming in.
“For our group to have success this year, we’re going to have to score by committee and defend by committee,” said McKee. “I think it’s going to be a real team effort.”
While McKee said he doesn’t want the team to rely on a core group of three or four players, there are expectations for new captain Connor Marritt.
“He’s been here for a few years now and he’ll be an integral part to our team” McKee said.
The return of goalie Max Palaga is also important for the team, the new coach said.
“He’ll be our starting goalie but we’re definitely still looking for a guy that can support him.”
Meanwhile, McKee said he’s looking forward to getting to know the players and the Vipers’ organization and getting involved in community events.
The Vipers have three exhibition games planned, including on Friday, when they take on Grande Prairie at Kal Tire Place.
The Vipers will open the regular season on Friday, September 6 with a road game against the West Kelowna Warriors.
I took in the first game of camp, between White and Gold. Over the summer I've seen conflicting sites re the status of Ben Sanderson. Some had him going to Colorado College this fall, others had him in 20-21. So it was very good to see that he's back for another year. He was one of the best on the ice this morning.
ReplyDeleteOthers who impressed: Max Palaga, to no surprise. But who will be the backup?
Brendan Kim seems to have put on a few pounds and an inch or two. Still has great instincts, especially on offense.
Connor Sleeth comes as advertised. Skilled. Has speed and size, too.
Ryan Shostak. Also fast and skilled.
Ryan MacLean. Not the best skater, but good defensive instincts.
Matt Kowalski. A 20 year old looks like he's ready to go, looking for a scholarship. Tried to showboat a bit, but still can put the puck in the net.
Nolan Matthews. He's only 15 and won't make the team this year, but he hung in there.
I really think this is a good team this year.
Thank you for the info/report from training camp today. I always enjoy your comments and appreciate you visiting the blog. I had to work today so was unable to attend training camp during the day, until stopping by after work for the final game/scrimmage of the evening.
ReplyDeleteAlso at camp, and playing for team White was Jacob Dorohoy, a 17 year old from the lower mainland. If he's related to Eddie Dorohoy, he'd have to be a grandson, maybe even a great-grandson. Eddie Dorohoy played in the old WHL when it was a pro league and was a really good player who put up a lot of points. He played mainly for the Vancouver Canucks in the 1950s and early 60s. The WHL was just a step below the NHL in those days before.
ReplyDeleteHere are Eddie's stats:
https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/279246/eddie-dorohoy