Thursday, December 5, 2019

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:

Centennials Make Roster Moves:

The Merritt Centennials have performed a pair of trades to bring them within the roster limit ahead of this weekends action. The Cents have sent defenseman Colton Sun (01) to the Selkirk Steelers of the MJHL in exchange for future considerations. They also dealt forward Spencer Schneider (00) to the Aberdeen Wings of the NAHL in exchange for a player development fee. Sun appeared in 12 games for the Centennials registering 1 assist. Schneider got into 20 games tallying 4 points. The moves come after the team acquired forward Jerzy Orchard and defender Braydon Clark from the WHL earlier in the week. The Centennials wish both Sun and Schneider the best in their hockey futures, and thank them for the time they spent in the community and the Nicola Valley.

Cowichan-Tri-Cities Trade:

The Cowichan Capitals have acquired 2001 born forward John Lundy from the USHL's Tri-City Storm! Lundy will be in the lineup tonight when the Capitals host Nanaimo and wearing number 20!

Nanaimo Clippers Place Bid For 2020 BCHL Showcase:

The Nanaimo Clippers have officially put a bid in to host the 2020 BCHL Showcase Festival. This event would see all 18 teams play in Nanaimo over four days. With over 200 scouts and 1,000’s of family, friends and fans coming too.

Grizzlies On Verge Of Extinction?

The BCHL's Victoria Grizzlies have built up a strong legacy on the ice, but a lack of community support could put the team's future at risk. 'We definitely need a lot of help:' Could dwindling crowds force Victoria Grizzlies into extinction?


Clippers Give Birkas Contract Extension:

Colin Birkas and the Nanaimo Clippers have agreed to a contract extension to June 30, 2021. Colin is new to the Clippers this year having an extensive coaching background in Ontario and Alberta.  He was head coach for the Kingston Voyageurs from 2011 to 2015 in the OJHL. He moved on to the Brockville Braves of the CCHL for the 2016-2017 season then was head coach for the Calgary Canucks (AJHL) in the 2017-18 season. He returned to Ontario for the 2018-2019 season where he worked as an Assistant Coach for the Trenton Golden Hawks in the OJHL before coming to the Clippers for the 2019-2020 season. As the Associate Coach for the Clippers, Birkas has done an incredible job specializing on the defensive zone coverage of the Clippers who currently stand second overall in the BCHL in goals against and at the top of the BCHL in penalty killing. He has been an important part of the Clippers success this year. Wes Mussio, owner of the Clippers, commented, “heading into the 2019-2020 season our Achilles’ heel from the previous year was our variable defensive zone coverage. I met Colin and immediately realized that he has a real knack for understanding the game and sure enough, it’s played out on the ice for the Clippers this year. I wanted to bring him back for a contract extension because his work on and off the ice is beyond any expectation we had.” Darren Naylor, Head Coach and GM of the Clippers, indicated, “Colin has a real eye for detail which has helped us adapt throughout games this year. He is a great communicator with the players given his teaching background. The players respect him immensely. He also has a great sense of humour and so it is easy to spend hours on the road getting to know him. I’m happy that the ownership group is making sure Colin is a long term member of our coaching staff.”

Chiefs Acquire Lyons From USHL:

The Chilliwack Chiefs are excited to announce the acquisition of Tommy Lyons from the Sioux Falls Stampede of the USHL. Lyons, a native of Westwood, Massachusetts comes to the Chiefs after beginning the season with the Stampede, totaling two goals and one assist thus far this season. Lyons is a player that the Chiefs staff have been watching closely for the last couple of seasons and is known for his responsibility in all three zones and his high character. He is committed to attend Harvard University, and is a former captain of the prestigious St. Sebastien’s Prep School program. Last season, Lyons totaled 12 goals and 24 assists for St. Sebastien’s in just 28 games, while also putting up three goals and two assists in 11 games played for the Boston Jr. Eagles program. When asked about his recent move to Chilliwack Lyons spoke to his excitement to join the historic Chiefs franchise. “I’m looking forward to joining a winning culture and hope to help the Chiefs find success throughout the rest of the season, “ said the 6’0, 175 pound left shot centre-man. “Our staff spent a lot of time watching Tommy play last season, and always came away impressed with his attention to detail and his willingness to put in the work in all three zones. This move will go a long way to add to our organizational depth up front and will help us to compete down the stretch this season,” said Chiefs Head Coach and GM Brian Maloney. Tommy Lyons is expected to arrive in Chilliwack this week.

Clippers Extend McPhalen's Contract:

Ken McPhalen has agreed to terms with the Clippers management to continue as the Assistant Coach/Goaltender Coach for the 2020-2021 season. Ken has been behind the Clippers’ bench since the 2017-2018 season and is an instrumental part of the team’s recent success on and off the ice. He has been part of the coaching staff with Darren Naylor, Head Coach and General Manager, since Naylor took over the helm of the Clippers in 2017. McPhalen had previously worked under Darren Naylor at the Delta Ice Hawks of the PJHL (Junior B) for two seasons. He has also been the goaltending coach for a number of top-end goalies, including Jordan Naylor, for many years under the Goalie Whisper program. Darren Naylor commented, “Ken has been a key part of my coaching staff for five years transitioning from Junior B to Junior A. He is willing to take on and accept new roles. Loyalty is his middle name. He’s very organized and efficient which helps me run our program. He’s good at organizing and running the community programs such as youth hockey. I’m excited to have Ken continue in his role at the Clippers indefinitely.” Wes Mussio pointed out, “extending Ken’s contract was a no-brainer for the team. He is very organized and is able to transition into new roles quite easily such as video review this year. The fact that we have two of the top three goaltenders in the entire BCHL this year says a lot on how good Ken is with the players in terms of developing them for the next level. I’m happy that Ken wants to make Nanaimo his long-term home.”

Prince George-Rockland Trade:

The Prince George Spruce Kings have traded goaltender Jack McGovern to the Rockland Nationals of the CCHL in exchange for future considerations. McGovern played five games with the Spruce Kings and had an 0-2 record with a 6.49 GAA. “Unfortunately, it came to the point where we needed to make a change. I think Jack will be the first to admit that he did not play as well as he could of in the opportunities he had with us”, says GM Mike Hawes. “Jack is a great kid is a good goalie who will bounce back with this change”. The Spruce Kings have now  added goaltender Carter Woodside (01) to the team’s roster. Woodside comes from the Princeton Posse of the KIJHL. Woodside was 3-0 in three games played and had a 1.33 GAA. Woodside has also played a WHL game with the Regina Pats last season and has a win in the BCHL as well. The Asquith, SK product had his debut last night with the Spruce Kings where he made 13 saves on 13 shots in relief. “We are fortunate to be able to add Carter to our team. Carter is someone we have known for a while back to his midget days with the Prince Albert Mintos”, says Hawes. Jett Alexander can’t play every game and having another goalie that we know can get the job done is important. Carter will more than provide that”. GM Mike Hawes also spoke regarding the December 1st carding deadline… “I would anticipate some more moves prior to the Dec 1 deadline based on the efforts we are getting from some players. The expectation is that all Spruce Kings players will compete hard and do whatever is best for the team every game. I don’t feel that we are getting that from some players consistently enough. Some guys are just out on the ice doing just enough to get by and not really accomplishing anything. I wouldn’t be doing my job if I sit by and allow that, Again, it is not all players but it’s hard to have success when you have a few that are not meeting the expectation”.

Morton Returns To Wild:

The Wenatchee Wild, proud members of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) announce the return of forward Sam Morton to the organization. Morton, a 20-year old forward, played for the Wild in the 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons. He played the last season and a half at Union College and is expected to return to Wenatchee in early December. He plans to transfer to another NCAA school for the 2020-21 season. Wild Head Coach / GM Bliss Littler remarked, “Sammy was a huge part of our Fred Page and Doyle Cup Championships. We look forward to being able to help him continue in his development.” Morton adds, “I really enjoyed my time in Wenatchee, and I think it was a big step for my development. I’m excited to head back and work on my game.”

Chilliwack-West Kelowna Trade:

The Chilliwack Chiefs have traded Carter Wilkie (00) to the West Kelowna Warriors in exchange for forward Trevor Adams (99). Wilkie, a native of Calgary, Alberta was in his second season as a member of the Chilliwack Chiefs, and had totaled two goals, 12 assists in 27 games played. Wilkie was a consistent contributor for the Chiefs during his time in Chilliwack, last season totaling an impressive 12 goals and 24 assists for 36 points during his rookie season. Wilkie is a beloved figure in the Chilliwack community, and is a player that always loved to give back to the fans and city of Chilliwack. “We had a lot of conversations about what is in the best interests for Carter Wilkie to go after a scholarship,” said Chiefs Head Coach and General Manager Brian Maloney. “Originally when teams were inquiring about Carter we weren’t interested in making a move but after some careful consideration we decided that this move was in the best interests of both parties. I want to sincerely thank Carter for everything he has done for the Chilliwack Chiefs organization, and the city of Chilliwack. He is a young man with amazing character, and I wish him nothing but the utmost success moving forward.” “Yesterday was a bittersweet day, Carter is a player that was loved by his teammates, his coaching staff, and the community,” said Associate Coach and Assistant GM Brad Rihela. We can’t thank him enough for his tireless work in the community, and his efforts on and off the ice on a daily basis. I know Carter will be successful in West Kelowna, and it is my hope that this transition will provide him more opportunity to go out and earn himself a scholarship.” Trevor Adams is a 1999 born forward from Muskegon, MI that will immediately inject some offensive flair and speed to the Chiefs lineup. He is a player with extensive BCHL experience and comes to Chilliwack with a commitment to Union College for next season. This season, Adams has scored five goals and four assists in 21 games for West Kelowna. Last season for the Salmon Arm Silverbacks he put up 17 goals, and 23 assists for 40 points. The IQ, speed, and character of Trevor will help the Chiefs as they make a push towards the playoffs. “Trevor is a player we have done a lot of homework on”, said Maloney. “Most importantly, his character is off the charts. He has been loved by teammates and coaches everywhere he’s been. Trevor is a player we feel will immediately help us offensively, and we look forward to adding his speed and dynamic ability to our lineup as we move into the second half of our season.” The Chiefs would like to wish Carter Wilkie the best with the West Kelowna Warriors, and welcome Trevor Adams to the Chiefs family.

Clippers Extend Contract Of Bergeron:

Gaelle Bergeron, the Athletic Therapist and Head Equipment Manager for the Nanaimo Clippers, has agreed to an extension of her contract through the 2020-2021 season. Gaelle is in her second year with the Clippers having come from Québec after graduating with a degree in athletic therapy. She has also agreed to continue through the off-season of the Clippers while helping out with the Senior B lacrosse team (Nanaimo Timbermen) and other spring hockey programs. Darren Naylor, Head Coach and General Manager, commented, “I’m very happy to continue the working relationship with Gaelle. She is a hard-working individual that takes great care of the players. She’s very compassionate about her job and very sympathetic to the players’ needs. She’s doing a great job here and I’m very pleased to have her continue on with the coaching staff.” Wes Mussio, owner of the Nanaimo Clippers, “I’m glad Gaelle decided to continue on with the Clippers for the 2020-2021 season as replacing her would be very difficult as she brings so much to the team. The fact that she’s willing to remain in Nanaimo during the off-season and help out with the lacrosse Timbermen is a bonus as well. She has been a great addition to our team and I’m glad she’s planning to live on the West Coast for years to come.”

Penticton-Victoria Trade:

The Penticton Vees Junior ‘A’ Hockey Club is pleased to announce the acquisition of defenceman Nico Somerville (’99) from the Victoria Grizzlies in exchange for forward Alex DiPaolo (’00) and defenceman Colton Kitchen (‘01). Somerville, 20, comes to Penticton with 181 games of junior hockey under his belt, all being played with the Grizzlies over a span of five seasons. The 5’10, 185-pound rearguard has tallied 14 goals and added 57 assists for 71 points in that span while also accumulating 124 penalty minutes. The 2019/20 season has been one of the best for the Port Alberni, BC product as he has scored 4 goals while registering 18 assists for 22 points in 30 games played with Victoria, as well as 30 penalty minutes. In addition to the strong play on the back end, Somerville adds plenty of leadership as he was named an alternate captain with the Grizzlies at the beginning of the season. The strong start to the year has also resulted in a commitment to play collegiate hockey as Somerville is slated to attend American International College (AIC) next season. “We are looking forward to having Nico be a part of our group this season with his experience and ability on the back end,” mentioned Vees President, General Manager and Head Coach Fred Harbinson, “We would like to wish the best to Alex and Colton in Victoria.” DiPaolo, 19, was in his first season with the Vees, tallying 4 goals and 6 assists for 10 points in 29 games played while Kitchen, 18, suited up in 15 games with Penticton where he tallied an assist. The Vees would like to welcome Nico and his family to the organization and the South Okanagan while thanking Alex and Colton for their time and contributions to the team and the City of Penticton.

Nanaimo-West Kelowna Trade:

The Nanaimo Clippers have strengthened their offense with the acquisition of Brandon Dent from the West Kelowna Warriors (BCHL) for future considerations. The 2001 born Dent, a second year player in the BCHL, currently leads the Warriors in scoring this year with 21 points in 28 games including a team leading 11 goals. Dent has turned the corner this year becoming a top level player in the BCHL after 5 points (all goals) in 44 games last season. In his last year of Major Midget, he had 59 points in 40 games including 24 goals. Darren Naylor, Head Coach and GM of the Nanaimo Clippers, remarked; “Dent is an excellent mid-season pick up. Not only can he chip in offence now but he should be a top 20 scorer in the BCHL next year as well. We had one more roster spot left and Brandon is the perfect fit. Heading into the second half of the season, we are going to have 4 solid lines on the front end that can all score.” Wes Mussio, owner of the Clippers pointed out; “We have been holding onto the remaining roster spot to grab a skilled forward that is a proven goal scorer. Dent fits our wish list perfectly. Now the team is set heading into the second half of the season.”

Kushniryk Leaves Spruce Kings For Western Hockey League:

Spruce Kings forward Wil Kushniryk is going back to the Western Hockey League to join the Calgary Hitmen. The 6’5 forward from Chilliwack had a goal and an assist in 16 games with the Spruce Kings which both came last night against the Penticton Vees. “We are happy for Wil”, says GM Mike Hawes. “He has played well for us in his time here but we knew that the call from a WHL team may come at some point. We fully support Wil going to Calgary and would never stand in the way of a player making a decision that he feels is best”. Hawes is also expecting that Kushniryk could rejoin the Spruce Kings in the near future, “Calgary is short some bodies right now due to injuries and Wil will help fill those voids” added Hawes. “The plan right now is that Wil will rejoin our team prior to the last road trip leading up to Christmas”.

Salmon Arm-St. Michaels Trade:

The Salmon Arm Silverbacks have acquired 20-year-old forward Lucas Breault from the St Michaels Buzzers of the Ontario Junior Hockey League in exchange for 18-year-old goaltender Dylan Kruss and future considerations. Breault, a Toronto, Ont. native, has played the last season and a half at Union College in the NCAA, where he compiled six points in 31 combined games. In the 2017-18 season, he tallied 15 points in 59 games in the United State Hockey League, split between the Central Illinois Flying Aces and the Sioux Falls Stampede. “We’re excited for Lucas to be joining our team,” Silverbacks general manager Brooks Christensen said. “He brings experience to our forward group and think he will be a key piece moving forward this season.” As a 17-year-old, Breault posted 54 points in 47 games for the Buzzers, the third-most in the OJHL among U-18 players during the 2016-17 season. That season, he was named to the OJHL Second All-Prospect Team and the year before that he was named to the OJHL Second All-Rookie Team. In 2015, he won a Telus Cup midget championship with the Toronto Young Nationals. Kruss, a 6-foot-3 rookie, started eight games this season for the Backs, compiling a 3-4-1 record with 3.49 G.A.A. and .879 SV%. “With bringing in a good player, we had to give up a good player and Dylan fit what St. Michaels was looking for,”  Christensen said. “Dylan is a great kid and wish him all the best with the Buzzers.” The Silverbacks would like to thank Kruss for his dedication to the Silverbacks and wish him well with his new organization, as well as welcome Breault to the Shuswap.

Warriors Sign Kodak:

The West Kelowna Warriors Junior ‘A’ Hockey Club is pleased to announce the addition of F Holden Kodak (‘01) to the team’s roster after his release from the Prince George Cougars of the Western Hockey League (WHL). Kodak, 18, spent the 2018-19 campaign with the Kootenay Ice (WHL) where he tallied three goals and seven assists. Kodak was recently dealt to the Prince George Cougars earlier this year where he’s played seven games. “I’m super excited to be joining the Warriors and being a part of history in West Kelowna”, stated Kodak. “I can’t wait to get in the lineup and help the Warriors in the stretch run towards the playoffs”. “We look forward to adding Holden and his ability to create offense for us”, stated Warriors Head Coach and General Manager Brandon West. “Holden was a player highly sought after in his midget prep days and I’ve always been excited about his natural abilities. Holden is a versatile player that can play any forward position and will help us immediately.” Prior to his Western League experience, the Cloverdale, BC native scored 52 goals and added 40 assists for 92 points in only 36 games in the 2017-18 season with the Yale Hockey Academy Prep Team(CSSHL). The Warriors would like to welcome Holden and his family to the City of West Kelowna and the Warriors organization.

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