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:
Quillan Commits To Vees:
The Penticton Vees are pleased to announce forward Jacob Quillan (’02) has committed to the team for the 2020/21 season. Quillan, 18, comes to the Peach City after completing his second season at Salisbury School in the United States High School Prep League (USHS). The 5’11, 170-pound forward finished second on his team in scoring during the 2019/20 campaign, scoring 17 goals while adding 20 assists for 37 points in 28 games played. Quillan helped his Salisbury team to their sixth Prep Championship, defeating the Dexter Academy by a 4-0 score in the 2020 Elite 8 title game. The Dartmouth, Nova Scotia native is also a champion at the Major Midget level, having won the Nova Scotia Major Midget Hockey League (NSMMHL) Championship in the 2017/18 season as he registered 14 goals and 30 assists for 44 points in 35 games with the Dartmouth Major Midget team in his 15-year-old season. Quillan has also secured his collegiate future, committing to play at Quinnipiac University in the fall of 2021. “I am very excited to join the Penticton Vees and am thankful for the opportunity they are giving me,” mentioned Quillan, “Penticton is a top-notch organization with a rich history and a high standard of excellence. I am excited to be a part of the Vees organization and to compete for a national championship with my teammates.” The Vees would like to welcome Jacob and his family to the organization and the South Okanagan.
Sullivan Commits To Cranbrook Bucks:
The Cranbrook Bucks (BCHL) are happy to announce that they have committed Defensemen Connor Sullivan for the 2020-2021 season. Sullivan, 19 from Plymouth, MA, played for the Boston Jr Bandits earning 45 points in 50 games. Sullivan captained the team this past season and is committed to play for the Yale University Bulldogs in 2021-2022. “We are thrilled to add Connor to our hockey club for the 2020-2021 season.” Said General Manager and Head Coach Ryan Donald. “Connor is terrific defenseman that will be able to play in all situations right away. His mobility, decision making, and work ethic stood out to our staff immediately, and we are excited to help him prepare for his NCAA career. Beyond his on-ice ability, Connor is an exceptional young man that will fit into Cranbrook and the Bucks organization extremely well. “
D’Agostino Commits To Langley:
The Langley Rivermen staff is still working hard behind scenes to find elite players for next season. On Sunday, they announced a commitment from forward Mark D’Agostino for 2020-21. D’Agostino is a 6’0″ 181-pound forward from North Branford, Connecticut who split last season with the Yale Jr. Bulldogs U18 and The Gunnery School. In six games with the Bulldogs he picked up a goal and two assists. He had an explosive prep season as team captain of The Gunnery, racking up 23 goals and 32 assists in 35 games. Through his four seasons with The Gunnery, D’Agostino put up 51 goals and 70 assists in 129 games. D’Agostino committed to the University of Connecticut back in 2017 after his first prep season. With his commitment to UConn, he will join former Rivermen forward John Wojciechowski. “The BCHL is a top notch league,” D’Agostino said. “I feel it will really develop me as a player and prepare me for the next level. Also, the city (Langley) seems to be great, along with playing hockey, I am happy about the experience to live out in British Columbia.” D’Agostino explains that signing with Langley has been a surreal experience. “It’s good to know you’re ending up in a great place. I hear nothing but great things about the program, the coaching staff gave me a warm welcome and I’m happy to join the Rivermen,” the 18-year-old added. “Coming to Langley, the fans will know me as a player who wants to win. I would do whatever it takes to get the team a win. I play hard nosed hockey and let my skill come into play." If D’Agostino can continue his offensive success in the BCHL, he will fit in nicely on one of the Rivermen’s top two lines. His hockey IQ and ability to put the puck in the net have been his keys to success so far, and the Rivermen will count on that next season.
Devereaux Commits To Nanaimo Clippers:
The Nanaimo Clippers continue their off season signing by adding 2001 forward Elijah Devereaux. Elijah was born in New York and most recently was at Northwood Hockey Academy in the US High School development league. He has been at that program since 2017-2018. Darren Naylor, Vice-President and Head Coach of the Clippers remarked, “I liked Elijah when I was scouting a tournament in Toronto this year. He had blinding speed so I am certain he will be one of the fastest skaters in the BCHL next season. His speed will be a huge advantage on the forecheck as he will undoubtedly be first to the puck the majority of the time. Elijah plays a strong 200 ft game and has some offensive upside to his game.” Colin Birkas, Associate Coach, noted; “Elijah is definitely an excellent pickup for the Clippers for the coming year. You can’t teach speed and this player has it. He’s going to cause a lot of turnovers in the O zone and I expect him to be a relentless back checker using his speed at every advantage. I’m very happy to get him this commitment.”
Fred Harbinson Interview:
Listen to President, General Manager and Head Coach Fred Harbinson as he chats with former Vees broadcaster Ryan Pinder on Sportsnet960
Rhéaume Commits To Prince George Spruce Kings:
The Prince George Spruce Kings are thrilled to announce the commitment of forward Nick Rhéaume (’02) for the 2020-21 season. The 17-year-old Rhéaume spent last season with Cushing Academy in the United States High-School Hockey League. Rhéaume had 10 goals and 25 assists in the 2019/20 campaign, good for 35 points in 34 games. “We are very excited to add Nick Rhéaume to our roster for next season. Nick has the ability to make an impact in all three zones of the ice and also comes from a good hockey family” says Spruce Kings Head Coach Alex Evin. “His mix of power and skill will be a welcomed addition to our forward group”. Rhéaume’s father Pascal played 318 NHL games and is a Stanley Cup Champion. Pascal spent time with the New Jersey Devils, St. Louis Blues, Chicago Blackhawks, and the Atlanta Thrashers. Pascal finished with 39 goals and 52 assists in his NHL career. Nick Rhéaume’s aunt Manon Rhéaume also played at a high level as a goaltender. Manon signed a contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning and appeared in two pre-season games in 1992 and 1993. Manon also won two gold medals at the IIHF World Women’s Championships and was a silver medalist at the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympic Games. The Spruce Kings would like to welcome Nick and his family to the organization and to the British Columbia Northern Capital.
MacDonald Commits To Alberni Valley Bulldogs:
The Alberni Valley Bulldogs announced that they have committed to 19-year old forward Jacob MacDonald to the line-up for next season. MacDonald, from Burlington Ontario, spent the 2019-2020 season with the Hamilton Kilty B’s in the GOJHL. MacDonald’s season was simply outstanding as he notched 33 goals and added 44 assists for 77 points. Those totals earned him the Russel Masterson Memorial Award as the league’s MVP and the Brent Rubel Memorial Award as Rookie of the Year. MacDonald spent the previous 3 seasons with Blyth Academy. “We’re really excited to add a player of Jacob’s calibre,” said Bulldogs head coach & general manager Joe Martin. “He was the captain for his club in Hamilton last season and for us, adding players with leadership and a competitive drive was really important. Bulldogs fans will enjoy watching Jacob play.” “I’m very excited to be able to join such an amazing organization,” said MacDonald. “The opportunity that lies ahead of me is one I’ve always wanted. To help the Bulldogs win and earn a Division 1 scholarship. Everything I’ve heard about Port Alberni has been positive from the community to the fans and more. I can’t wait to get things going.” Welcome to Port Alberni and the Bulldogs Jacob!
Gammill Commits To Cranbrook Bucks:
The Cranbrook Bucks (BCHL) are happy to announce that they have committed forward Briggs Gammill for the 2020-2021 season. Gammill, 18, played last season at Berkshire School in the USHS Prep league collecting 25 goals and 20 assists for 45 points through 29 games. The New Canaan, CT native is committed to play with Yale University for the 2021-2022 season. “We are excited to be able to add a young man of Briggs’ character and ability to our roster.” Said Head Coach and General Manager Ryan Donald. “Briggs was a key component of Berkshire’s hockey program over the past few seasons, ultimately leading them to the Elite-8 Semi Finals this past season. He is a player that we will count on to lead our team both on and off the ice. Briggs will be a great addition to our program and the city of Cranbrook.” The Cranbrook Bucks wish to welcome Briggs to the organization and the City of Cranbrook.
Teply Commits To Powell River Kings:
The Powell River Kings are looking forward to the addition of 2002 born Jakub Teply to their 2020/2021 roster. The 6’0, Stamford Connecticut native has spent the last season with the Brunswick Prep School in the United States Hockey School League where he racked up a total of 32 points in 31 games. “Jakub is a big strong forward who has a heavy shot and protects the puck down low”, says Head Coach Brock Sawyer, “He comes to us with excellent recommendations from numerous college coaches and we are excited to help him in his next step of securing a scholarship to continue his education and hockey career.” Please join us in welcoming Jakub and his family to the Powell River Kings organization.
Niedermayer Commits To Vees:
The Penticton Vees are pleased to announce defenseman Josh Niedermayer (’04) has committed to the team for the 2020/21 season. Niedermayer, 16, joins the Vees after spending each of the last two seasons with the Okanagan Hockey Academy including the 2019/20 campaign with the OHA Red Midget Prep squad. The 5’11”, 203-pound rearguard posted 10 goals and 10 assists for 20 points on the backend while suiting up for 36 games this season. Niedermayer also has junior experience, getting into 3 games this season with the Vees as an affiliate player. The Penticton, BC native will join his brother, Jackson, as the two will play on the same team for the first time and has plenty of places to look for inspiration within his family. His father, Scott, played in 1,263 National Hockey League games, winning 4 Stanley Cups, 2 Olympic gold medals for Canada and is a Hockey Hall of Famer. In addition to his father, Josh’s uncle, Rob, played in 1,153 career NHL games while being a Stanley Cup winner with his cousin, Jason Strudwick, is a veteran NHLer, playing in 674 career games. “I’ve gotten to know the Vees over the last couple years and am excited to join them next year,” commented Niedermayer, “I’m looking forward to trying to help the team win and continue improving as a player. I’m also excited to play with my brother and new teammates next season.” The Vees would like to welcome Josh to the organization as well as the City of the Penticton and the South Okanagan.
Lemay Commits To Silverbacks:
The Salmon Arm Silverbacks are excited to announce the commitment of 2002-born defenceman Joaquim Lemay for the 2020-21 BCHL season. The 17-year-old spent last season at Mount St. Charles Hockey Academy in Rhode Island, one of the top midget programs in the United States. Lemay compiled 23 points in 53 games for their U-18 team, helping them go 48-11-4 and qualify for the state championships in March. “Adding a puck-moving defenceman like Joaquim was an important piece for our roster, with Akito Hirose, Jeremy Gervais and Antonio Andreozzi moving on to the NCAA,” Silverbacks General Manager Brooks Christensen said. “We thought it was important to bring in a player who had strong skating and puck moving ability who will help us transition the puck quickly. We look forward to our fans getting to see Joaquim showcase his skills in Salmon Arm before heading off to Nebraska-Omaha.” The Quebec native was taken by the Rimouski Oceanic in the 2018 QMJHL Entry Draft but chose the Junior A route after securing an NCAA scholarship to the University of Nebraska-Omaha last March. “I am proud and honoured to be part of a professional organization like the Salmon Arm Silverbacks,” Lemay said. “I can’t wait to start this new chapter in my life in such a great environment that can help me become a better player and also a better person.”
Borovinskiy Commits To Prince George Spruce Kings:
The Prince George Spruce Kings are thrilled to announce the commitment of forward Max Borovinskiy (’04) for the 2020-21 season. “Max exemplifies the quality of player and person that our program values on and off the ice” says Head Coach Alex Evin. “He has the ability to play fast and physical and his ice awareness will allow him to be an elite contributor at the Jr A level one day.” The 15-year-old Borovinskiy spent last season with the Burnaby Winter Club in the Canadian Sport School Hockey League. Borovinskiy had 12 goals and 14 assists, good for 26 points in 34 games. “Max comes from a program that promotes a team culture that aligns with our core values which will make for an easy transition into our organization” says Evin. The Spruce Kings would like to welcome Max and his family to the organization and to the British Columbia Northern Capital.
De Vries Commits To Grizzlies:
The pipeline between Stanstead College boarding school in south-eastern Quebec and the Victoria Grizzlies continues to flow. For the third year in a row, Grizzlies GM and head coach Craig Didmon has dipped into the Stanstead College Spartans hockey program, and, after hitting home runs with his first two Stanstead recruits — Nashville Predators draft pick Alex Campbell in 2018 and big winger Andrew Amousse who had an impressive rookie B.C. Hockey League campaign last season with 13 goals in 51 games — who can blame him. Devon de Vries is the latest Stanstead star to come west, and he too, has an impressive resumé. The 18-year-old de Vries captained the Spartans last season while racking up 35 goals and 46 assists for 81 points in 58 games. And now the 5-foot-10, 175-pound centre is looking forward to making the jump to the BCHL, and he’s got a couple of buddies to help ease the transition. “I’m good friends with Andrew and [Grizzlies defenceman] Isack [Bandu], we played together growing up,” said de Vries, who, like Amousse and Bandu, hails from Quebec and speaks fluent French after growing up in St.-Lazare, just west of Montreal. “And when I came out to visit Victoria about a month ago, I fell in love with the city and the beaches and surroundings so I’m really excited to get things started with the Grizzlies.” Didmon’s 2020-21 Grizzlies will be minus high-scoring forwards Marty Westhaver and Henri Schreifels as the two graduate to the NCAA and the University of Alabama-Huntsville and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, respectively. So the addition of de Vries brings more youth, speed and skill to Victoria’s lineup. “He’s another of the good, strong first-year forwards we have coming in who has a history of putting up strong offensive numbers at each level he’s played,” said Didmon. “He’s also a right-handed shot, which we need, and we expect him to be around for at least a couple of seasons and help our club a great deal.” As he comes to B.C. looking to chase down an NCAA scholarship himself, de Vries, like everyone else, has been holed up in his house thanks to social-distancing. “Ya, it has been tough,” he said. “Luckily I have a lot of gym equipment at home and can do some pretty good workouts here, but hopefully all this doesn’t last too much longer.” Meanwhile, Didmon was also busy adding to the Grizzlies’ blue line. Defenceman Aleksa Babic will be in training camp after agreeing to come west from the Chatham Maroons of the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League. Babic, who hails from Tecumseh, Ont., and turns 18 in August, is 6-foot-1, 175 pounds and had three goals and 21 assists in 49 games last season for Chatham.
Murdoch Commits To Nanaimo:
No comments:
Post a Comment