Former Viper Mercer-Bandits Win National Championship:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Ethan Mercer and the Alberta Junior Hockey

League Brooks Bandits defeated the Ontario Junior Hockey League Pickering Panthers 4-1 on May 29th 2022 to win the 2022 Centennial Cup.

Here is the press release from the AJHL website,

https://ajhl.ca/media-centre/news-archives.html?nID=20548

Mercer is in his first season with the Alberta Junior Hockey League Brooks Bandits. In 34 regular season games, Mercer collected (5-goals-6-assists-11-points). In 6 playoff games, Mercer collected (0-goals-1-assist-1-point).

Mercer committed to the Vernon Vipers June 12th 2020 for the 2020-21 season. Mercer played one season in Vernon with the 2020-21 Vernon Vipers. Mercer started the 2021-22 season with the Vernon Vipers, was traded to the Alberta Junior Hockey League Brooks Bandits two games into the 2021-22 season. The Vipers traded Mercer to the Brooks Bandits October 19th 2021 for future considerations. In 18 games with the Vipers, Mercer collected (0-goals-2-assists-2-points).

Ethan Mercer’s Player Profile:

https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/507440/ethan-mercer

BCHL News & Trades:

BCHL News & Trades:

Dunits Commits To Capitals:

https://www.cowichancapitals.com/capitals-commit-to-2004-born-forward-kai-dunits-for-2022-23

Kursonis Commits To Bulldogs:

https://www.albernivalleybulldogs.ca/bulldogs-add-holy-cross-commit-matt-kursonis-for-22-23

Spruce Kings Name Cameron Captain:

https://www.sprucekings.bc.ca/spruce-kings-name-colton-cameron-22nd-captain-in-franchise-history

Cranbrook Bucks Looking For Assistant Coach:

https://www.cranbrookbucks.ca/2022/05/05/assistant-coach-added-position-for-the-cranbrook-bucks/

Wenatchee Wild 2021-22 Year In Review:

https://www.wenatcheewildhockey.com/news/wenatchee-wild-2021-22-year-in-review/

Sjoberg Commits To Alberti Valley Bulldogs:

https://www.albernivalleybulldogs.ca/bulldogs-commits-to-mateo-sjoberg-for-next-season

Chilliwack Chiefs 2021-22 Team Award Winners:

https://chilliwackchiefs.net/2021-22-team-award-winners/

Whipple Commits To Smoke Eaters:

https://www.trailsmokeeaters.com/commitment-smoke-eaters-sign-minnesota-defenceman-whipple-for-2022-23

Express Sign Buttazzoni:

https://www.coquitlamexpress.ca/coquitlam-express-sign-diego-buttazzoni

Clarke Commits To Cowichan Capitals:

https://www.cowichancapitals.com/capitals-commit-to-2004-born-forward-brandon-clarke-for-2022-23

Sookro Commits To Bucks:

https://www.cranbrookbucks.ca/2022/05/03/bucks-commit-kootenay-born-defensemen-bryce-sookro-for-the-2022-2023-season/

Smith Commits To Centennials:

https://www.merrittcentennials.com/jacob-smith-commits-to-merritt

Syracuse Crunch Release Former Viper Taylor:

The American Hockey League Syracuse Crunch have released former Vernon

Vipers goaltender Ty Taylor.

Here is the press release from the San Diego Union Tribune,

https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/national/story/2022-04-28/thursdays-transactions

Taylor is in his first season with the American Hockey League Syracuse Crunch & the ECHL Orlando Solar Bears. The American Hockey League Syracuse Crunch signed Taylor March 13th 2022. Taylor didn’t play a game with the Crunch. Taylor played 1 game with the Solar Bears, is 0-0 with a 2.33 GAA

Taylor played the 2021-22 season at Grant MacEwan University before signing his first professional contract with the ECHL Orlando Solar Bears February 24th 2022.

Taylor played three seasons at the University of New Hampshire from 2018-2021 before transfering to Grant MacEwan University for the 2021-22 season, his final year of college hockey. In 13 games at Grant MacEwan University, Taylor went 1-11 with a 4.16 GAA 

Taylor was drafted 214th overall in Round 7 by the Tampa Bay Lightning at the 2018 NHL Entry Draft.

Taylor played two seasons in Vernon from 2016-2018. In 60 games with the Vipers, Taylor went 36-17-5 with 8 shutouts and a 2.38 GAA

Ty Taylor's Player Profile:

https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/297989/ty-taylor

Bruins Sign Vipers Alumni Coughlin & Jandric:

The American Hockey League Providence Bruins have signed former Vernon Vipers

forwards Liam Coughlin and Steven Jandric.

Here is the tweet from Ty Anderson’s twitter account,

https://twitter.com/_TyAnderson/status/1520040626686939137

Liam Coughlin is in his first season with the ECHL Worcester Railers. The Railers signed Coughlin August 3rd 2021. In 45 games, Coughlin has (9-goals-24-assists-33-points).

Coughlin has split the 2021-22 season between the ECHL & American Hockey League. Coughlin signed a professional tryout contract with the American Hockey League Bridgeport Islanders December 28th 2021 was released after going pointless in 2 games with the Islanders. The Railers loaned Coughlin to the American Hockey League Springfield ThunderbirdsJanuary 6th 2022 was returned to the ECHL after one assist in 2 games with the Thunderbirds.

Coughlin didn't play professional hockey last season. Coughlin last played professional hockey during the 2019-20 season, splitting the season between the American Hockey League Rockford IceHogs & ECHL Indy Fuel. 

Coughlin played four seasons at Vermont University from 2015-2019 before signing his first professional contract with the American Hockey League Rockford IceHogs May 19th 2019.

Coughlin was drafted 130th overall by the Edmonton Oilers in Round 5 at the 2014 NHL Entry Draft. Coughlin didn't play a game with the Oilers, was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks July 6th 2015. Coughlin has yet to play a game with the Blackhawks.

Coughlin played two seasons in Vernon from 2013-2015. In 107 games with the Vipers, Coughlin collected (38-goals-67-assists-105-points).

Liam Coughlin's Player Profile:

https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/248303/liam-coughlin

Steven Jandric is in his first season with the ECHL Worcester Railers. This is Jandric's second stint with the Railers this season. Jandric played the 2021-22 season at Merrimack College before signing his first professional contract with the ECHL Worcester Railers March 20th 2022. Jandric was released March 27th 2022. In 5 games, Jandric collected (2-goals-3-assists-5-points). The Railers re-signed Jandric March 31st 2022. In 15 games with the Railers, Jandric has (4-goals-4-assists-8-points).

Jandric spent the past five seasons playing with three Universities from 2017-2022. Jandric committed to the University of Alaska-Fairbanks for the 2017-18 season. Jandric played three seasons in Alaska before transferring to Denver University for the 2020-21 season. After one season at Denver University, Jandric transfferred to Merrimack College for the 2021-22 season. 

Jandric played two seasons in Vernon from 2015-2017. In 115 games with the Vipers, Jandric collected (34-goals-39-assists-73-points). 

Steven Jandric's Player Profile:

https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/268055/steven-jandric

Royals Loan Ex Viper Hanson To American Hockey League:

The ECHL Reading Royals have loaned former Vernon Vipers goaltender

Darion Hanson to the American Hockey League Lehigh Valley Phantoms.

Here is the press release from the ECHL website,

https://www.echl.com/en/news/2022/4/echl-transactions-april-9

Hanson played the 2021-22 season at the University of Conneticut, before signing his first professional contract with the American Hockey League Lehigh Valley Phantoms March 29th 2022. Hanson didn’t play a game with the Phantoms was released April 8th 2022. The ECHL Reading Royals signed Hanson April 8th 2022. In 1 game with the Royals, Hanson went 1-0 with a 1.00 GAA

In 35 games at the University of Conneticut, Hanson went 20-15 with a 2.24 GAA Hanson become the first Huskies goaltender to record 20 wins in a season, setting a new school record. 

Due to COVID-19 Hanson decided not to play hockey last season. Hanson played three seasons at Union College from 2017-2020 transferred to the University of Conneticut in December 2020.

Hanson was nominated for the Hobey Baker Award in 2020 was invited to the Philadelphia Flyers development camp in 2017, Toronto Maple Leafs development camp in 2018 and the Buffalo Sabres development camp in 2019.

Hanson played parts of one season in Vernon with the 2016-17 Vernon Vipers. The Vipers acquired Hanson from the United States Hockey League Youngstown Phantoms November 18th 2016. No details on the trade were released. In 21 games with the Vipers, Hanson went 14-4 with 2 shutouts and a 1.84 GAA

Darion Hanson’s Player Profile:

https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/288916/darion-hanson

Former Vernon Laker Biller Faces Fraud Case In U.S.

On March 15th 2022 the U.S Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) accused former Vernon Lakers forward Frank Biller of civil securities fraud charges. 

Here is the story from Castanet.net,

Former B.C. man accused of allegedly running call centre scam - BC News - Castanet.net

Here is the story from the Vancouver Sun,

Eron Mortgage figure Francis Biller faces fraud case in U.S. | Vancouver Sun

Biller played parts of one season in Vernon with the 1986-87 Vernon Lakers. Biller split the 1986-87 season between the Vernon Lakers & Merritt Warriors. In 14 games with the Lakers, Biller collected (6-goals-5-assists-11-points).

Frank Biller's Player Profile:

Frank Biller Hockey Stats and Profile at hockeydb.com

BCHL News & Trades:

BCHL News & Trades:

Spruce Kings Sign Winn:

Spruce Kings Sign Goaltender Colin Winn (04) For 2022-23 Season | Prince George Spruce Kings

BC Hockey League Considering Return To Quesnel:

B.C.Hockey League comissioner Chris Hebb confirmed Quesnel in "on the radar" to get back into the BCHL. - Prince George Citizen

Isenberg Commits To Merritt Centennials:

Isenberg Commits to the Cents for 2022-23 | Merritt Centennials

Smoke Eaters Year End Awards:

2022 Trail Smoke Eaters Team Awards | Trail Smoke Eaters

Silverbacks Re-Sign Cleverly:

Backs Ink Cleverly For Two More Seasons | Salmon Arm Silverbacks (sasilverbacks.com)

MacDonald Commits To Warriors:

NEWS: BEN MACDONALD COMMITS TO THE WARRIORS | West Kelowna Warriors

Rabbit Signs Extension With Bulldogs:

Wacey Rabbit Signs 2-Year Extension | Alberni Valley Bulldogs

Spruce Kings Sign Murphy:

Spruce Kings Sign F Dom Murphy (03) For 2022-23 Season | Prince George Spruce Kings

BCHL Year End Awards Winners:

BCHL announces 2021-22 year-end award winners | BCHL League Site

Chilliwack Chiefs Sign Morse:

Brian Morse Signs with Chilliwack Chiefs - Chilliwack Chiefs

Coquitlam Express Sign Garzone:

Coquitlam Express sign Draw Garzone | Coquitlam Express

Seeley Commits To Trail:

COMMITMENT – Smoke Eaters Add 2005 Forward Connor Seeley | Trail Smoke Eaters

Spruce Kings Awards Winners:

Spruce Kings Announce 2021-2022 Regular Season Award Winners | Prince George Spruce Kings

Jacksonville Icemen Place Ex Viper Martin On Reserve:

The ECHL Jacksonville Icemen have placed former Vernon Vipers forward Craig

Martin on reserve.

Here is the press release from the ECHL website,

ECHL Transactions - May 7

Martin is in his third season with the ECHL Jacksonville Icemen. In 66 games, Martin has (25-goals-35-assists-60-points).

The Icemen loaned Martin to the American Hockey League Charolotte Checkers January 3rd 2022. Martin went pointless in 3 games with the Checkers, was released and returned to the ECHL January 26th 2022.

Martin played four seasons at Quinnipiac University from 2015-2019 before signing his first professional contract with the American Hockey League Springfield Thunderbirds April 2nd 2019. Martin didn't play a game with the Thunderbirds, was released, later signing with the ECHL Adirondak Thunder July 8th 2019. The Thunder traded Martin to Jacksonville November 26th 2019.

Martin played parts of two seasons in Vernon from 2011-2013. The Vipers traded Martin and future considerations to the Alberni Valley Bulldogs October 1st 2013 for Jared Wilson. In 46 games with the Vipers, Martin collected (10-goals-13-assists-23-points). Martin played parts of four seasons in the BCHL with Vernon, Alberni Valley & Trail from 2011-2015.

Craig Martin's Player Profile:

Craig Martin - Elite Prospects

Komets Activate Former Vernon Viper Forward Jones From Reserve:

The ECHL Fort Wayne Komets have activated former Vernon Vipers forward Connor

Jones from reserve.

Here is the press release from the ECHL website,

ECHL Transactions - April 22

Jones is in his first season with the ECHL Fort Wayne Komets. The Komets signed Jones August 30th 2021. In 52 games, Jones has (10-goals-29-assists-39-points).

Jones played last season in Sweden with Vasterviks IK a professional hockey team from Vasterviks, Sweden that play in the Swedish Ice Hockey League.

Jones played in the ECHL & American Hockey League from 2014-2019 before playing in Sweden in 2019.

Jones played four years at Quinnipiac University from 2010-2014 before signing his first professional contract with the American Hockey League Oklahoma City Barons April 3rd 2014. Jones signed a one year-two way contract with the New York Islanders February 22nd 2017. Jones made his NHL/Islanders debut April 1st 2017 vs the Buffalo Sabres. Jones played only one game with the Islanders.

Jones played three seasons in Vernon from 2007-2010. In 163 games with the Vipers, Jones collected (80-goals-118-assists-198-points). Jones is 6th on the Vernon franchise all-time goals list with 80, is 7th on the Vernon franchise all-time assists list with 118 and 6th on the Vernon franchise all-time points list with 198.

Connor Jones Player Profile:

Connor Jones - Elite Prospects

Bandits Tie Centennial Cup/Vernon Lakers Record:

The Alberta Junior Hockey League Brooks Bandits

tied a Centennial Cup/Vernon Lakers record for most goals in one game. The Bandits beat the Superior International Junior Hockey League Red Lake Minors 11-4 on Saturday to improve to 2-0 at the Centennial Cup (formerly known as the Royal Bank Cup).

Here is the press release from the Brooks Bandits website,

Brooks Bandits | News Archives 

The Bandits become the seventh team in Centennial Cup/Royal Bank Cup history to score 11 goals in a single game. The Vernon Lakers defeated the Nipawin Hawks 11-5 in the Semi-finals at the 1990 Centennial Cup in Vernon.

Here is the Centennial Cup Guide & Record Book,

2022-centennial-cup-guide-and-record-book.pdf (hockeycanada.ca)

Former Vernon Vipers forward Ethan Mercer plays for the Brooks Bandits. Mercer is in his first season with the Bandits. In 34 regular season games, Mercer collected (5-goals-6-assists-11-points). In 6 playoff games, Mercer collected (0-goals-1-assist-1-point). Mercer is pointless in 1 game at the Centennial Cup.

Mercer committed to the Vernon Vipers June 12th 2020 for the 2020-21 season. Mercer played one season in Vernon with the 2020-21 Vernon Vipers. Mercer started the 2021-22 season with the Vernon Vipers, was traded to the Alberta Junior Hockey League Brooks Bandits two games into the 2021-22 season. The Vipers traded Mercer to the Brooks Bandits October 19th 2021 for future considerations. In 18 games with the Vipers, Mercer collected (0-goals-2-assists-2-points). 

Ethan Mercer's Player Profile:

Ethan Mercer - Elite Prospects

Solar Bears Assign Ex Viper Tufto To Syracuse Crunch:

The ECHL Orlando Solar Bears have assigned former Vernon Vipers forward Odeen

Tufto to the American Hockey League Syracuse Crunch.

Here is the press release from the Orlando Solar Bears website,

Bird, McInnis receive PTOs with Barracuda (orlandosolarbearshockey.com)

Tufto has split the 2021-22 season between the American Hockey League Syracuse Crunch and the ECHL Orlando Solar Bears. In 4 games with the Crunch, Tufto has (0-goals-0-assists-0-points). In 36 games with the Solar Bears, Tufto has (7-goals-24-assists-31-points).

Tufto is in his first season with the Orlando Solar Bears and his second season with the Syracuse Crunch.

Tufto played four seasons at Quinnipiac University from 2017-2021 before signing his first professional contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning March 31st 2021. The Lightning assigned Tufto to the American Hockey League Syracuse Crunch after his college career ended last season. Tufto finished the 2020-21 season with the Syracuse Crunch, playing in 4 games.

Tufto played one season in Vernon with the 2015-16 Vernon Vipers. In 57 games with the Vipers, Tufto collected (25-goals-40-assists-65-points). Tufto left the Vipers after one season for the United States Hockey League. Tufto played one season in the USHL with Fargo, Tri-City & Sioux City before committing to Quinnipiac University for the 2017-18 season.

Odeen Tufto's Player Profile:

Odeen Tufto - Elite Prospects

Greenville Swamp Rabbits Activate Ex Viper Defenceman Coughlin From Injured Reserve:

The ECHL Greenville Swamp Rabbits have activated former Vernon Vipers

defenceman Johnny Coughlin from Injured Reserve.

Here is the press release from the ECHL website,

ECHL Transactions - April 16

Coughlin is in his first season with the ECHL Greenville Swamp Rabbits after coming over in a trade with the Cincinnati Cyclones January 28th 2022. In 24 games with the Swamp Rabbits, Coughlin has (2-goals-12-assists-14-points).

Greenville's Head Coach/GM & director of hockey opperations is former Vernon Vipers forward Andrew Lord. Lord is in his second season with the Swamp Rabbits, played with the Vernon Vipers from 2002-2004.

Coughlin played last season with the ECHL Rapid City Rush after the Cincinnati Cyclones opt out of the 2020-21 season as part of the ECHL's COVID-19 Voluntary Suspension Policy, that allowed Coughlin to sign with another team. Coughlin's right's would revert back to the Cincinnati Cyclones for the 2021-22 season. Coughlin returned to the Cincinnati Cyclones for the 2021-22 season, his second season with Cincinnati before being traded January 28th 2022 to Greenville.

The ECHL Fort Wayne Komets signed Coughlin last season on January 27th 2021. Coughlin didn't play a game with the Komets, was released February 10th 2021. The ECHL Rapid City Rush signed Coughlin February 13th 2021. Coughlin would finish the remainder of the 2020-21 season with the Rush, before returning to the Cincinnati Cyclones for the 2021-22 season.

Coughlin played four seasons at the College of Holy Cross from 2015-2019 before signing his first professional contract with the ECHL Maine Mariners March 15th 2019. Coughlin has spent his entire professional career playing in the ECHL with the Mainer Mariners, Norfolk Admirals, Rapid City Rush, Cincinnati Cyclones and the Greenville Swamp Rabbits. 

Coughlin played one season in Vernon with the 2014-15 Vernon Vipers. In 55 games with the Vipers, Coughlin collected (3-goals-15-assists-18-points). 

Johnny Coughlin's Player Profile:

Johnny Coughlin - Elite Prospects

Penticton Passes Vernon For Most League Championships:

The Penticton Vees set a franchise and league

record after winning their 13th BC Hockey League Championship on Wednesday, defeating the Nanaimo Clippers 8-2 in Game 4 to win the Fred Page Cup in four games. Penticton now passes Vernon for most League Championships in franchise and league history with 13. 

Here is the press release from the Penticton Vees website,

GAME RECAP: Vees Clinch 13th Fred Page Cup In Franchise History | Penticton Vees

Here is the press release from the BCHL website,

Penticton Vees capture 2021-22 Fred Page Cup championship | BCHL League Site

Here is the story from the Penticton Western News,

Penticton Vees blow out Nanaimo Clippers to sweep series and win BCHL championship – Penticton Western News

Prior to the 2021-22 season, Penticton and Vernon both had won 12 League Championships.

Penticton Broncos, Penticton Knights, Penticton Vees League Championships:

1967 Penticton Broncos 4-1 over Kelowna
1968 Penticton Broncos 4-2 over Kamloops
1973 Penticton Broncos 4-3 over Chilliwack
1980 Penticton Knights 4-3 over Nanaimo
1981 Penticton Knights 4-3 over Abbotsford
1982 Penticton Knights 4-1 New Westminster 
1985 Penticton Knights 4-3 over Burnaby
1986 Penticton Knights 4-1 over Richmond 
2008 Penticton Vees 4-0 over Nanaimo
2012 Penticton Vees 4-0 over Powell River
2015 Penticton Vees 4-2 over Nanaimo
2017 Penticton Vees 4-3 over Chilliwack
2022 Penticton Vees 4-0 over Nanaimo

Vernon Essos, Vernon Lakers, Vernon Vipers League Championships:

1970 Vernon Essos 4-2 over Victoria
1972 Vernon Essos 4-3 over Penticton
1988 Vernon Lakers 4-1 over Richmond
1989 Vernon Lakers 4-1 over New Westminster
1991 Vernon Lakers 4-0 over Powell River
1992 Vernon Lakers 4-0 over Bellingham
1996 Vernon Vipers 4-1 over Langley
1999 Vernon Vipers 4-1 over Chilliwack
2003 Vernon Vipers 4-0 over Chilliwack
2009 Vernon Vipers 4-2 over Powell River
2010 Vernon Vipers 4-3 over Powell River
2011 Vernon Vipers 4-0 over Powell River

Here is the complete list of former BC Hockey League Champions,

League Championship (Fred Page Cup) | BCHL League Site

Buss Commits To Quinnipiac University:

Vernon Vipers forward Luke Buss has committed to Quinnipiac University.

Here is the press release from the Vernon Vipers website,

Buss Commits To Quinnipiac | Vernon Vipers

Luke Buss's Player Profile:

Luke Buss - Elite Prospects

Reading Royals Sign Ex Viper Hanson:

The ECHL Reading Royals have signed former Vernon Vipers goaltender

Darion Hanson.

Here is the press release from the ECHL website,

ECHL Transactions - April 8

Hanson played the 2021-22 season at the University of Conneticut, before signing his first professional contract with the American Hockey League Lehigh Valley Phantoms March 29th 2022. Hanson didn't play a game with the Phantoms was released April 8th 2022. In 35 games at the University of Conneticut, Hanson went 20-15 with a 2.24 GAA Hanson become the first Huskies goaltender to record 20 wins in a season, setting a new school record.

Due to COVID-19 Hanson decided not to play hockey last season. Hanson played three seasons at Union College from 2017-2020 transferred to the University of Conneticut in Decemeber 2020.

Hanson was nominated for the Hobey Baker Award in 2020 was invited to the Philadelphia Flyers development camp in 2017, Toronto Maple Leafs development camp in 2018 and the Buffalo Sabres development camp in 2019. 

Hanson played parts of one season in Vernon with the 2016-17 Vernon Vipers. The Vipers acquired Hanson from the United States Hockey League Youngstown Phantoms November 18th 2016. No details on the trade were released. In 21 games with the Vipers, Hanson went 14-4 with 2 shutouts and a 1.84 GAA

Darion Hanson's Player Profile:

Darion Hanson - Elite Prospects

Stockton Heat Assign Ex Viper Goaltender Shortridge To Mavericks:

The American Hockey League Stockton Heat have assigned former Vernon Vipers

goaltender Andrew Shortridge to the ECHL Kansas City Mavericks.

Here is the press release from the ECHL website,

ECHL Transactions - April 11

Shortridge is in his second season between the American Hockey League Stockton Heat and ECHL Kansas City Mavericks. Shortridge has split the season between the Heat & Mavericks. Shortridge is 0-1 with the Heat with a 4.00 GAA and is 7-7 with the Mavericks with a 2.92 GAA

Shortridge split last season between the ECHL Kansas City Mavericks & American Hockey League Stockton Heat after signing a two-way ECHL/AHL contract with the American Hockey League Stockton Heat December 5th 2020.

Shortridge played three seasons at Quinnipiac University from 2016-2019 before signing his first professional contract with the San Jose Sharks April 3rd 2019 and an amateur contract with the American Hockey League San Jose Barracuda April 3rd 2019. Shortridge split the 2019-20 season between the American Hockey League San Jose Barracuda and the ECHL Allen Americans. Shortrdige has yet to play a game with the San Jose Sharks.

Shortridge played one season in Vernon with the 2015-16 Vernon Vipers. In 44 games with the Vipers, Shortridge went 19-25 with 2 shutouts and a 3.15 GAA

Andrew Shortridge's Player Profile:

Andrew Shortridge - Elite Prospects

Growlers Activate Former Viper Skirving From Reserve:

The ECHL Newfoundland Growlers have activated former Vernon Vipers forward

Todd Skirving from reserve.

Here is the press release from the ECHL website,

ECHL Transactions - April 1

Skirving is in his third season with the ECHL Newfoundland Growlers. In 60 games, Skirving has (21-goals-20-assists-41-points).

Skirving didn't play professional hockey last season as the Growlers decided to opt out of the 2020-21 season under the ECHL's COVID-19 Voluntary Suspension Policy. Skirving spent last season as an Assistant Coach with the BCHL expansion Cranbrook Bucks. Skirving and the Bucks went 3-16-0-1 during the 2020-21 pod season.

Skirving played four years at Rochester Institute of Technology from 2013-2017 before signing his first professional contract with the ECHL Orlando Solar Bears August 3rd 2017. Skirving spent the 2017-18 season playing with Orlando, Utah and Atlanta before signing a professional contract with the ECHL Newfoundland Growlers October 16th 2018.

Skirving committed to the Vernon Vipers for the 2010-11 season. Skirving played half a season in Vernon with the 2010-11 Vernon Vipers. The Vipers traded Skirving and future considerations to the Prince George Spruce Kings January 10th 2011 for Ryan Renz. In 34 games with the Vipers, Skirving collected (4-goals-5-assists-9-points).

Todd Skirving's Player Profile:

Todd Skirving - Elite Prospects

BCHL News & Trades:

BCHL News & Trades:

Chilliwack Chiefs Sign McNicholas:

Chiefs Sign Goaltender Austin McNicholas - Chilliwack Chiefs

One Nanaimo Clippers Coach Reinstated, Another Remaining On Leave Amid League Investigation:

One Nanaimo Clippers coach reinstated, another remaining on leave amid league investigation | NanaimoNewsNOW | Nanaimo news, sports, weather, real estate, classifieds and more

Bulldogs Name Klassen Captain:

Klassen Named 20th Captain in Bulldogs History | Alberni Valley Bulldogs

Yee Commits To Express:

Express sign William Yee, again | Coquitlam Express

Haxton Commits To Cowichan Capitals:

Capitals commit to 19 year old import forward Andrew Haxton for 2022/23! | Cowichan Capitals

Chiefs Name Marton Team Sales & Guest Experience Coordinator:

Cole Marton Joins Chiefs Front Office Team - Chilliwack Chiefs

Barakett Commits To Centennials:

Victor Barakett Set to Join the Cents for 2022-2023 | Merritt Centennials

BCHL Makes Some Moves In Clippers Coaching Probe:

BCHL makes some moves in Clippers coaching probe - Victoria Times Colonist

Joyce Commits To Warriors:

NEWS: NOLAN JOYCE COMMITS TO THE WARRIORS | West Kelowna Warriors

Chiefs Name Price Assistant Coach & Strength & Conditioning Coach:

Chris Price Hired as Assistant and Strength/Conditioning Coach - Chilliwack Chiefs

Shara Commits To Merritt Centennials:

Centennials Sign Shara for the 2022/23 Season | Merritt Centennials

Powell River Kings Awards Night:

LaLonde & Aman named team MVP’s | Powell River Kings Junior A Hockey Club

BCHL Announces Year-End All-Star Teams:

BCHL announces year-end all-star teams | BCHL League Site

Crunch Sign Former Vernon Viper Taylor:

The American Hockey League Syracuse Crunch have signed former Vernon

Vipers goaltender Ty Taylor.

Here is the press release from the Syrcuse Crunch website,

Syracuse Crunch Sign Goaltender Ty Taylor To PTO - Syracuse Crunch

Taylor is in his first season with the ECHL Orlando Solar Bears before signing with the Syracuse Crunch. In 1 game with the Solar Bears, Taylor is 0-0 with a 2.33 GAA

Taylor played the 2021-22 season at Grant MacEwan University before signing his first professional contract with the ECHL Orlando Solar Bears February 24th 2022.

Taylor played three seasons at the University of New Hampshire from 2018-2021 before transfering to Grant MacEwan University for the 2021-22 season, his final year of college hockey. In 13 games at Grant MacEwan University, Taylor went 1-11 with a 4.16 GAA 

Taylor was drafted 214th overall in Round 7 by the Tampa Bay Lightning at the 2018 NHL Entry Draft.

Taylor played two seasons in Vernon from 2016-2018. In 60 games with the Vipers, Taylor went 36-17-5 with 8 shutouts and a 2.38 GAA

Ty Taylor's Player Profile:

Ty Taylor - Elite Prospects

Lehigh Valley Phantoms Release Vipers Alumni Hanson:

The American Hockey League Lehigh Valley Phantoms have released former

Vernon Vipers goaltender Darion Hanson.

Here is the press release from the San Diego Union Tribune,

Friday's Transactions - The San Diego Union-Tribune (sandiegouniontribune.com)

Hanson played the 2021-22 season at the University of Conneticut, before signing his first professional contract with the American Hockey League Lehigh Valley Phantoms March 29th 2022. Hanson never played a game with the Phantoms before being released. In 35 games with the University of Conneticut Huskies this season, Hanson went 20-15-0 with a 2.24 GAA Hanson become the first Huskies goaltender to record 20 wins in one season, setting a new school record.

Due to COVID-19 Hanson decided not to play hockey last season. Hanson played three seasons at Union College from 2017-2020 transferred to the University of Conneticut in Decemember 2020.

Hanson was nominated for the Hobey Baker Award in 2020 was invited to the Philadelphia Flyers development camp in 2017, Toronto Maple Leafs development camp in 2018 and the Buffalo Sabres development camp in 2019. 

Hanson played parts of one season in Vernon with the 2016-17 Vernon Vipers. The Vipers acquired Hanson from the United States Hockey League Youngstown Phantoms November 18th 2016. No details on the trade were released. In 21 games with the Vipers, Hanson went 14-4 with 2 shutouts and a 1.84 GAA

Darion Hanson's Player Profile:

Darion Hanson - Elite Prospects

Railers Sign Former Vernon Viper Jandric:

The ECHL Worcester Railers have signed former Vernon Vipers forward Steven

Jandric.

Here is the press release from the Worcester Railers website,

Worcester Railers HC Sign Forward Steve Jandric to an ECHL Contract - RailersHC.com

Jandric will join former Vernon Vipers forward Liam Coughlin who plays for the Railers. Coughlin played two seasons in Vernon from 2013-2015.

This is Jandric's second stint with the Railers this season. Jandric played the 2021-22 season at Merrimack College before signing his first professional contract with the ECHL Worcester Railers March 20th 2022. The Railers released Jandric March 27th 2022. In 5 games, Jandric collected (2-goals-3-assists-5-points).

Jandric spent the past five seasons playing with three Universities from 2017-2022. Jandric committed to the University of Alaska-Fairbanks for the 2017-18 season. Jandric played three seasons in Alaska before transferring to Denver University for the 2020-21 season. After one season at Denver University, Jandric transfferred to Merrimack College for the 2021-22 season. 

Jandric played two seasons in Vernon from 2015-2017. In 115 games with the Vipers, Jandric collected (34-goals-39-assists-73-points). 

Steven Jandric's Player Profile:

Steven Jandric - Elite Prospects

Mustangs Relive 1996 Royal Bank Cup Loss To Vernon:

Twenty six years ago today, on May 12th

1996 The Vernon Vipers won their third National Championship, winning the Inaugural Royal Bank Cup shutting out the Host Melfort Mustangs 2-0. 

Sticks and Gas Podcast talks to former members of the 1996 Host Melfort Mustangs, a team that went 44-14-6 in the regular season and 4-0 (Round Robin) at the 1996 Royal Bank Cup before falling short in the final to Vernon. 

Here is the podcast link (Scroll down to Episode 1)

Sticks and Gas Podcast (chtbl.com)

1996 Royal Bank Cup,

1996 Royal Bank Cup - Wikipedia

1995-96 was the first season for the Vernon franchise, under the "Vernon Vipers" after the team changed names from the Vernon Lakers to the Vernon Vipers in the summer of 1995. That 95/96 season the Vipers went 43-13-4 during the regular season before defeating Nanaimo, Cowichan Valley in the playoffs before knocking off Langley in the BCHL Finals. Vernon would sweep Prince George to win the Mowat Cup before knocking off the St. Albert Saints in seven games to win the Doyle Cup and advance to the 1996 Royal Bank Cup in Melfort, Saskatchewan. The Vipers finished 2-2 during the Round Robin, beat Newmarket in the Semi-finals to advance to the Finals vs Melfort.

BCHL Unveils 60th Anniversary Team:

The BC Hockey League has unveiled it's 60th Anniversary Team.

Here is the press release from the BCHL website,

BCHL unveils 60th Anniversary Team | BCHL League Site

Icemen Activate Vipers Alumni Martin From Reserve:

The ECHL Jacksonville Icemen have activated former Vernon Vipers forward Craig

Martin from reserve.

Here is the press release from the ECHL website,

ECHL Transactions - March 6

Martin is in his third season with the ECHL Jacksonville Icemen. In 66 games, Martin has (25-goals-35-assists-60-points).

The Icemen loaned Martin to the American Hockey League Charolotte Checkers January 3rd 2022. Martin went pointless in 3 games was released and returned to the ECHL January 26th 2022.

Martin played four seasons at Quinnipiac University from 2015-2019 before signing his first professional contract with the American Hockey League Springfield Thunderbirds April 2nd 2019. Martin didn't play a game with the Thunderbirds was released, later signing with the ECHL Adirondak Thunder July 8th 2019. The Thunder traded Martin to Jacksonville November 26th 2019.

Martin played parts of two seasons in Vernon from 2011-2013. The Vipers traded Martin and future considerations to the Alberni Valley Bulldogs October 1st 2013 for Jared Wilson. In 46 games with the Vipers, Martin collected (10-goals-13-assists-23-points). Martin played parts of four seasons in the BCHL with Vernon, Alberni Valley & Trail from 2011-2015.

Craig Martin's Player Profile:

Craig Martin - Elite Prospects

Phantoms Sign Ex Vipers Goaltender Hanson:

The American Hockey League Lehigh Valley Phantoms have signed former

Vernon Vipers goaltender Darion Hanson.

Here is the press release from oursportscentral.com,

Phantoms Add Two Collegiate Players - OurSports Central

Hanson played the 2021-22 season at the University of Conneticut. In 35 games with the Huskies, Hanson went 20-15-0 with a 2.24 GAA Hanson become the first Huskies goaltender to record 20 wins in a season, setting the school record.

Due to COVID-19 Hanson decided not to play hockey last season. Hanson played three seasons at Union College from 2017-2020 transfered to the University of Conneticut in December 2020.

Hanson was nominated for the Hobey Baker Award in 2020 was invited to the Philadelphia Flyers development camp in 2017, Toronto Maple Leafs development camp in 2018 and the Buffalo Sabres devlopment camp in 2019. 

Hanson played parts of one season in Vernon with the 2016-17 Vernon Vipers. The Vipers acquired Hanson from the United States Hockey League Youngstown Phantoms November 18th 2016. No details on the trade were released. In 21 games with the Vipers, Hanson went 14-4 with 2 shutouts and a 1.84 GAA

Darion Hanson's Player Profile:

Darion Hanson - Elite Prospects

Railers Activate Ex Vernon Viper Coughlin From Injured Reserve:

The ECHL Worcester Railers have activated former Vernon Vipers forward Liam

Coughlin from Injured Reserve.

Here is the press release from the ECHL website,

ECHL Transactions - April 6

Coughlin is in his first season with the ECHL Worcester Railers. The Railers signed Coughlin August 3rd 2021. In 45 games, Coughlin has (9-goals-24-assists-33-points).

Coughlin has split the 2021-22 season between the ECHL & American Hockey League. Coughlin signed a professional tryout contract with the American Hockey League Bridgeport Islanders December 28th 2021 was released after going pointless in 2 games with the Islanders. The Railers loaned Coughlin to the American Hockey League Springfield ThunderbirdsJanuary 6th 2022 was returned to the ECHL after one assist in 2 games with the Thunderbirds.

Coughlin didn't play professional hockey last season. Coughlin last played professional hockey during the 2019-20 season, splitting the season between the American Hockey League Rockford IceHogs & ECHL Indy Fuel. 

Coughlin played four seasons at Vermont University from 2015-2019 before signing his first professional contract with the American Hockey League Rockford IceHogs May 19th 2019.

Coughlin was drafted 130th overall by the Edmonton Oilers in Round 5 at the 2014 NHL Entry Draft. Coughlin didn't play a game with the Oilers, was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks July 6th 2015. Coughlin has yet to play a game with the Blackhawks.

Coughlin played two seasons in Vernon from 2013-2015. In 107 games with the Vipers, Coughlin collected (38-goals-67-assists-105-points).

Liam Coughlin's Player Profile:

Liam Coughlin - Elite Prospects

Former Viper Mercer-Brooks Bandits Win AJHL Championship:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Ethan Mercer and the Brooks Bandits shutout the

Spruce Grove Saints 2-0 Saturday in Game 5 as the Brooks Bandits won the Alberta Junior Hockey League Championship for a sixth time in franchise history, winning the best of seven series 4-1. 

Here is the press release from the Brooks Bandits website,

Brooks Bandits | News Archives

Here is the press release from the AJHL website,

AJHL | League News Archives

The Brooks Bandits advance to the Centennial Cup in Estevan, Saskatchewan May 19th-29th.

Mercer is in his first season with the Alberta Junior Hockey League Brooks Bandits. In 34 regular season games, Mercer collected (5-goals-6-assists-11-points). In 6 playoff games, Mercer has (0-goals-1-assist-1-point).

Mercer committed to the Vernon Vipers June 12th 2020 for the 2020-21 season. Mercer played one season in Vernon with the 2020-21 Vernon Vipers. Mercer started the 2021-22 season with the Vernon Vipers, was traded to the Alberta Junior Hockey League Brooks Bandits two games into the 2021-22 season. The Vipers traded Mercer to the Brooks Bandits October 19th 2021 for future considerations. In 18 games with the Vipers, Mercer collected (0-goals-2-assists-2-points).

Ethan Mercer's Player Profile:

Ethan Mercer - Elite Prospects