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honourable mention for the BCHL Player of the Week.
Here is the press release from the BCHL website,
Nadeau brothers, Duclair named NAPA Auto Parts 3 Stars of the Week | BCHL League Site
Tuesday, February 28, 2023
Cleaves & Parks Named Honourable Mention For Player Of The Week:
honourable mention for the BCHL Player of the Week.
Vernon Vipers Collision Of The Week - Anthony Cliche
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defenceman Anthony Cliche's hit on Powell River Kings defenceman Casey Aman February 17th 2023.
Here is the CSN Frank's Collision of the Week from the Vernon Vipers YoyTube page,
Collision Of The Week - Anthony Cliche [2-17-2023] - YouTube
Monday, February 27, 2023
Vernon Vipers Clinch Playoff Spot With Win In Trail:
Here is the press release from the Vernon Vipers website,
After the Buzzer – Vipers Clinch a Playoff Spot With Victory in Trail | Vernon Vipers
If the playoffs started today, the 2nd place 30-13-1-2 Cranbrook Bucks would host the 7th place 21-19-2-4 Vernon Vipers in the opening round of the BCHL playoffs. The Bucks went 4-1 vs the Vipers during the regular season.
Ghost Pirates Trade Vipers Alumni Hanson To Iowa:
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goaltender Darion Hanson to the Iowa Heartlanders.
Here is the press release from the Savannah Ghost Pirates website,
Hanson has split this season between the ECHL Savannah Ghost Pirates & the American Hockey League Cleveland Monsters. In 11 games with the Ghost Pirates, Hanson went 3-5 with a 2.97 GAA & in 1 game with the Monsters, Hanson went 0-1 with a 5.05 GAA
The Ghost Pirates signed Hanson August 9th 2022. Hanson started the 2022-23 season with the Ghost Pirates before the American Hockey League’s Cleveland Monsters signed Hanson to a professional tryout (PTO) contract November 3rd 2022. The Monsters returned Hanson to the ECHL November 8th 2022. The Monsters signed Hanson to a professional tryout (PTO) contract January 13th 2023 before returning Hanson to the ECHL January 19th 2023.
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. The Royals loaned Hanson to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms April 9th 2022. Hanson never played a game with the Phantoms.
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.
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
Sunday, February 26, 2023
Vernon Vipers-Trail Smoke Eaters Highlights:
Here are the Vernon Vipers goals from the Vernon Vipers twitter account,
Vernon Vipers forward Hank Cleaves opens the scoring at 10:47 of the 1st period, giving Vernon a 1-0 lead.
Vernon Vipers forward Hank Cleaves scores his second goal of the evening at 15:53 of the 1st period, giving Vernon a 2-0 lead.
Former Trail Smoke Eaters forward Walker Erickson scores at 17:13 of the 3rd period on the powerplay, giving Vernon a 3-0 lead.
Former Viper McPhee Ready To Bring On The Music:
Here is the story from the Vernon Morning Star,
McPhee was an Assistant Coach the past two seasons with RINK Hockey Academy in Kelowna.
McPhee spent four seasons in the Western Hockey League from 2010-2014 with Tri-Cities, Everett and Kootenay before playing five seasons at the University of Regina from 2014-2019. Trollhättan HC signed McPhee in May 2019. Trollhättan HC is a professional ice hockey team from Trollhättan, Sweden. McPhee never reported or played a game before retiring from hockey.
McPhee started the 2010-11 season with the Western Hockey League Tri-City Americans before being assigned to the Vernon Vipers November 18th 2010. McPhee played parts of one season with the 2010-11 Vernon Vipers before leaving the Vipers during the 2010-11 season for the Western Hockey League Everett Silvertips. The Vipers traded McPhee's playing rights & future considerations to the Victoria Grizzlies December 12th 2011 for Sean Robertson. McPhee never played a game with the Grizzlies. In 24 games with the Vipers, McPhee collected (3-goals-1-assist-4-points).
Saturday, February 25, 2023
Vernon 3 Trail 1
Boxscore-Game Summary,
Vernon Vipers @ Trail Smoke Eaters Saturday, February 25, 2023 | BCHL League Site
Game Report,
Text Box Score,
Official statistics powered by LeagueStat.com (hockeytech.com)
Vernon Vipers-Cranbrook Bucks Highlights:
Here are the highlights from the Cranbroom Bucks YouTube page,
February 24, 2023 - Cranbrook Bucks vs Vernon Vipers - YouTube
Game Preview: Vernon @ Trail:
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Tonight is the third of five regular season meetings between the Vernon Vipers & Trail Smoke Eaters. The season series is 1-1
Vernon's record & stats vs the Smoke Eaters since 2002
Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon is 91-27-1-4-1 vs Trail
Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon has outscored Trail 521-297
Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon is 37-16-1-1-1 in Trail
The Vipers are 7-2-1-0 in their last ten home games vs. the Smoke Eaters
The Vipers are 7-2-0-0-1 in their last ten road games vs. the Smoke Eaters
The Vipers last regular season win at home vs. Trail was a 10-3 victory on Wednesday, March 23rd 2022
The Smoke Eaters last regular season win in Vernon was a 3-2 overtime victory on Monday, Febraury 20th 2023
The Vipers last regular season win in Trail was a 4-1 victory on Friday, February 3rd 2023
The Smoke Eaters last regular season win at home vs. Vernon was a 5-1 victory on Friday, January 17th 2020
Here's a look at the regular season series vs Trail
February 3rd Vernon @ Trail: Vipers won 4-1
February 20th Trail @ Vernon: Smoke Eaters won 3-2 overtime
February 25th Vernon @ Trail:
March 17th Trail @ Vernon:
March 18th Trail @ Vernon:
Let's take a look at the Vernon Vipers:
The 20-19-2-4 Vernon Vipers make their second and final regular season visit to the Cominco Arena, are coming off a 6-5 loss Friday in Cranbrook. Tonight's the second game of a four game road trip. The Vipers have lost fourteen of their last eighteen road games. Tonight's the third meeting vs the Trail Smoke Eaters. Trail won 3-2 overtime in Vernon on Monday. The Vipers are 1-1 vs the Smokies. The last time the Snakes were in Trail, the Vipers won 4-1 February 3rd. The Vipers have lost three straight and lost three of their last five games and lost six of their last ten games. Vernon sits 7th in the Interior Division.
Vernon Vipers Roster:
Vernon Vipers Scoring Leaders:
Lee Parks (18-20-38)
Walker Erickson played 31 games with the 2019-20 Trail Smoke Eaters
Vernon Vipers 2022-23 Record/Stats:
Games Played: 45
Wins: 20
Losses: 19
Overtime Wins: 2
Overtime Losses: 2
Shootout Wins: 2
Shootout Losses: 4
Overtime Record: 2-2
Shootout Record: 2-4
Home Record: 14-6-1-2
Road Record: 6-13-1-2
When the Vipers score first: 13-7
When the opponents score first: 7-18
Leading after the 1st period: 10-3
Tied after the 1st period: 8-10
Trailing after the 1st period: 2-12
Leading after the 2nd period: 14-1
Tied after the 2nd period: 2-4
Trailing after the 2nd period: 4-20
Out shooting opponents: 10-4
Out shot by opponents: 10-20
One goal games: 10-9
Goals for: 122
Goals against: 149
Record in September: 0-3
Record in October: 6-4
Record in November: 3-6
Record in December: 5-3
Record in January: 3-5
Record in February: 3-4
Record vs Interior Division: 13-22
Record vs Coastal Division: 7-3
Longest winning streak: Three games
Longest losing streak: Three games
Standings: 7th Place Interior DivisionVernon Vipers Returning Players:
Max Borovinskiy 04
Reagan Milburn 03
Luke Pakulak 03
Seiya Tanaka-Campbell 03
Luke Ashton 05
Griffen Barr 02
Anthony Cliche 03
Ayden Third 02
Roan Clarke 03
Ethan David 03
Vernon Vipers departed & traded players from last years team:
Luke Buss 03
JoJo Tanaka-Campbell 03
Jack Glen 01
Matthew Culling 01
Luke Lavery 04
Tyler Chan 05
Cameron MacDonald 02
Ryan Shostak 01
Copeland Fricker 03
Zack Tonelli 02
Cade McNelly 01
Talon Zakall 02
Nicholas Kent 01
Liam Cavan 02
Vernon's home record vs Trail:
0-0-1-0
Vernon's road record vs Trail:
1-0-0-0
Vernon's scoring leaders vs Trail:
Lee Parks (1-2-3)
Hank Cleaves (1-1-2)
Thomas Tien (0-2-2)
Luke Pakulak (1-1-2)
Thomas Tien (0-2-2)
Luke Pakulak (1-1-2)
Griffen Barr (0-1-1)
Dylan Compton (1-0-1)
Jonathan Horn (0-1-1)
Ethan Merner (0-1-1)
Isaac Tremblay (1-0-1)
Walker Erickson (1-0-1)
Anson McMaster (0-1-1)
Ethan David (1-1 Record)
Let's take a look at the Trail Smoke Eaters:
The 17-21-3-3 Trail Smoke Eaters are coming off a 6-5 overtime loss Friday in West Kelowna. The Smokies return home from a three game road trip. The Smoke Eaters play five of their next six games at home. Trail has lost four of their last five home games. The Smoke Eaters have lost four of their last five games and lost seven of their last ten games. Trail has lost thirteen of their last sixteen games. Trail sits 8th in the Interior Division.
Trail Smoke Eaters Roster:
Trail Smoke Eaters Scoring Leaders:
Brady Hunter (15-32-47)
Nicholas Remissong played 37 games with the 2020-21 & 2021-22 Vernon Vipers
Trail Assistant Coach Dallas Calvin played with the 2013-14 Vernon Vipers
Trail Smoke Eaters Record/Stats:
Games Played: 44
Wins: 17
Losses: 21
Overtime Losses: 3
Shootout Losses: 3
Home Record: 11-9-1-1
Road Record: 6-12-2-2
Goals for: 136
Goals against: 173
Standings: 8th Place Interior Conference
Trail Smoke Eaters Returning Players:
Dawson Ridge 04
Josh Schenk 04
Brady Hunter 02
Adam Parsons 03
Nicholas Remissong 02
Ethan Warrener 03
Ethan Willoughby 02
Jordan Hendry 02
Evan Bushy 02
Trail Smoke Eaters departed and traded players from last years team:
Corey Cunningham 01
Connor Michaud 02
Zach Michaelis 02
Christian Lowe 02
Coalson Wolford 01
Charlie Strobel 01
Quinn Disher 03
Teddy Lagerback 01
Joshua Orrico 03
Joel Barton 03
Cameron Moger 02
Kabore Dunn 01
Evan Fradette 01
Mason Dunsford 03
Cole Tisdale 02
Trail's regular season home record vs Vernon:
0-1-0-0
Trail's regular season road record vs Vernon:
1-0-0-0
Trail Smoke Eaters scoring leaders vs Vernon:
Adam Marshall (1-1-2)
Brady Hunter (1-1-2)
Adam Parsons (0-2-2)
Mathieu Cobetto-Roy (0-1-1)
Ethan Mann (0-1-1)
Evan Bushy (1-0-1)
Ethan Warrener (0-1-1)
Josh Schenk (1-0-1)
Nicholas Remissong (0-1-1)
Teagan Kendrick (1-0 Record)
Friday, February 24, 2023
Cranbrook 6 Vernon 5
Boxscore-Game Summary,
Vernon Vipers @ Cranbrook Bucks Friday, February 24, 2023 | BCHL League Site
Game Report,
Text Box Score,
Official statistics powered by LeagueStat.com (hockeytech.com)
Game Preview: Vernon @ Cranbrook:
 |
Tonight is the fifth and final regular season meeting between the Vernon Vipers & Cranbrook Bucks. The Bucks lead the season series 3-1
Vernon's record & stats vs the Bucks since 2021 (The Bucks were an expansion team for the 2020-21 season)
Since the 2021-22 regular season Vernon is 5-4-0-1 vs Cranbrook
Since the 2021-22 regular season Cranbrook has outscored Vernon 29-25
Since the 2021-22 regular season Vernon is 3-2-0-1 at home vs Cranbrook
Since the 2021-22 regular season Vernon is 2-2-0-0 in Cranbrook
The Vipers are 3-2-0-1 in their last ten home games vs Cranbrook
The Vipers last regular season win at home vs. Cranbrook was a 1-0 victory on Saturday, October 29th 2022
The Bucks last regular season win in Vernon was a 6-5 shootout victory on Friday, November 25th 2022
The Vipers last regular season win in Cranbrook was a 2-1 shootout victory on Saturday, February 5th 2022
The Bucks last regular season win at home vs Vernon was a 4-2 victory on Saturday, February 4th 2023
Vernon Vipers/Cranbrook Bucks 2022-23 Regular Season Series:
October 29th Cranbrook @ Vernon: Vipers won 1-0
November 25th Cranbrook @ Vernon: Bucks won 6-5 shootout
January 15th Vernon @ Cranbrook: Bucks won 5-2
February 4th Vernon @ Cranbrook: Bucks won 4-2
February 24th Vernon @ Cranbrook
Let's take a look at the Vernon Vipers:
The 20-18-2-4 Vernon Vipers make their third and final regular season visit to Western Financial Place, are coming off a 3-2 overtime loss Monday afternoon to the visiting Trail Smoke Eaters. Tonight's the first game of a four game road trip. The Vipers have won only six games away from home this season, have lost twelve of their last seventeen road games. The Vipers have played seven of their past ten games on the road. Vernon has lost three of their last five games and lost six of their past ten games. Vernon sits 7th in the Interior Division.
Vernon Vipers Roster:
Vernon Vipers Scoring Leaders:
Lee Parks (18-20-38)
Ethan Sundar played 17 games with the Bucks this season
Vernon Vipers 2022-23 Record/Stats:
Vernon Vipers 2022-23 Record/Stats:
Games Played: 44
Wins: 20
Losses: 18
Overtime Wins: 2
Overtime Losses: 2
Shootout Wins: 2
Shootout Losses: 4
Overtime Record: 2-2
Shootout Record: 2-4
Home Record: 14-6-1-2
Road Record: 6-12-1-2
When the Vipers score first: 13-6
When the opponents score first: 7-18
Leading after the 1st period: 10-3
Tied after the 1st period: 8-10
Trailing after the 1st period: 2-11
Leading after the 2nd period: 14-1
Tied after the 2nd period: 2-4
Trailing after the 2nd period: 4-19
Out shooting opponents: 10-4
Out shot by opponents: 10-19
One goal games: 10-8
Goals for: 117
Goals against: 143
Record in September: 0-3
Record in October: 6-4
Record in November: 3-6
Record in December: 5-3
Record in January: 3-5
Record in February: 3-3
Record vs Interior Division: 13-21
Record vs Coastal Division: 7-3
Longest winning streak: Three games
Longest losing streak: Three games
Standings: 7th Place Interior DivisionVernon Vipers Returning Players:
Max Borovinskiy 04
Reagan Milburn 03
Luke Pakulak 03
Seiya Tanaka-Campbell 03
Luke Ashton 05
Griffen Barr 02
Anthony Cliche 03
Ayden Third 02
Roan Clarke 03
Ethan David 03
Vernon Vipers departed & traded players from last years team:
Luke Buss 03
JoJo Tanaka-Campbell 03
Jack Glen 01
Matthew Culling 01
Luke Lavery 04
Tyler Chan 05
Cameron MacDonald 02
Ryan Shostak 01
Copeland Fricker 03
Zack Tonelli 02
Cade McNelly 01
Talon Zakall 02
Nicholas Kent 01
Liam Cavan 02
Vernon's regular season home record vs Cranbrook:
1-0-0-1
Vernon's regular season road record vs Cranbrook:
0-2-0-0
Vernon's regular season scoring leaders vs Cranbrook:
Seiya Tanka-Campbell (1-4-5)
Reagan Milburn (2-2-4)
Isaac Tremblay (3-0-3)
Luke Pakulak (1-2-3)
Luke Pakulak (1-2-3)
Julian Facchinelli (0-2-2)
Anson McMaster (1-1-2)
Hank Cleaves (0-2-2)
Lee Parks (1-1-2)
Lee Parks (1-1-2)
Anson McMaster (0-1-1)
Ethan Sundar (0-1-1)
Dylan Compton (0-1-1)
Thomas Tien (0-1-1)
Walker Erickson (1-0-1)
Anthony Cliche (0-1-1)
Griffen Barr (0-1-1)
Ethan David (1-2 Record-Shutout)
Roan Clarke (0-1 Record)
Let's take a look at the Cranbrook Bucks:
The 29-12-1-2 Cranbrook Bucks are coming off a 5-1 loss in Penticton Monday afternoon. Tonight's the fifth and final regular season meeting vs the Vernon Vipers. The Bucks are 3-1 vs the Snakes this season. The last time these two teams played, the Bucks won 4-2 February 4th in Cranbrook. Tonight's the first game of a two game home stand. The Bucks have won twelve of their last thirteen home games. Cranbrook has lost three straight and lost three of their last five games and won six of their last ten games. Cranbrook sits 2nd in the Interior Division.
Cranbrook Bucks Roster:
Cranbrook Bucks Scoring Leaders:
Rhys Bentham (13-24-37)
Cranbrook Bucks Record/Stats:
Games Played: 44
Wins: 29
Losses: 12
Overtime Losses: 1
Shootout Losses: 2
Home Record: 17-3-0-1
Road Record: 12-9-1-1
Goals for: 154
Goals against: 109
Standings: 2nd Place Interior Division
Cranbrook Bucks Returning Players:
Jarrod Smith 04
Noah Quinn 03
Kellen Hjartarson 03
Luke Pfoh 05
Carsyn Good 03
Rhys Bentham 02
Bauer Morrissey 02
Cameron Kungle 02
Nathan Airey 03
Cranbrook Bucks departed and traded players from last years team:
Hayden Gelbard 02
Carter Schmidt 04
Tyson Dyck 04
Zeth Kindrachuk 02
Johnny Johnson 01
Liam Hansson 01
Andrew King 03
Jaden Fodchuk 03
Brendan Rogers 01
AJ Vasko 02
Quaid Anderson 01
Cole Assailly 03
Declan Ride 03
Evan Gartner 01
Cranbrook's regular season home record vs Vernon:
2-0-0-0
Cranbrook's regular season road record vs Vernon:
0-1-0-1
Cranbrook Bucks scoring leaders vs Vernon:
Noah Quinn (4-1-5)
Kellan Hjartson (3-2-5)
Rhys Bentham (0-4-4)
Jack Silich (0-3-3)
Bauer Morrissey (1-2-3)
Donovan Frias (2-1-3)
Nick Peluso (1-1-2)
Luke Pfoh (1-1-2)
Blake Cotton (0-2-2)
Blake Cotton (0-2-2)
Carsyn Good (0-1-1)
Cameron Kungle (1-0-1)
Jack Henry (0-1-1)
Jarrod Smith (1-0-1)
Jaden Fodchuk (0-1-1)
Julian Frias (0-1-1)
Carter Capton (1-1 Record)
Matthew Fleet (1-0 Record)Nathan Airey (1-0 Record)
Thursday, February 23, 2023
Ex Vipers Defenceman Bourgeois Named 2nd Star In 3 Stars of The Week:
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2nd Star in the KIJHL 3 Stars of the Week.
Here is the press release from the KIJHL website,
Bourgeois is in his first season with the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League North Okanagan Knights. In 26 regular season games, Bourgeois collected (4-goals-16-assists-20-points). Bourgeois also played 1 game with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks & 6 games with the Cowichan Capitals this season.
Bourgeois committed to the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League Melfort Mustangs July 19th 2022 but never played a game, before signing with the North Okanagan Knights for the start of the 2022-23 season.
Bourgeois played last season with the Cariboo Cougars U18, Summerland Steam, Vernon Vipers & West Kelowna Warriors.
Bourgeois committed to the Vernon Vipers July 31st 2021. Bourgeois went pointless in 18 games last season with the Vipers, was released January 10th 2022. Bourgeois finished last season as an affiliated player with the West Kelowna Warriors.
Adam's father Sean Bourgeois played two seasons in Vernon from 1991-1993 with the Vernon Lakers & was an Assistant Coach with the Vernon Vipers from 2001-2005. The Vernon Lakers were around from 1980-1995 before changing their name to the Vernon Vipers in 1995.
Parks Named Honourable Mention For Player Of The Week:
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Player of the Week.
Here is the press release from the BCHL website,
Hedquist, Pulver, Nadeau named NAPA Auto Parts 3 Stars of the Week | BCHL League Site
Lee Parks Player profile:
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
Hytec Weekly Wrap Up With Jason McKee:
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a 3-2 overtime loss February 20th 2023 to the visiting Trail Smoke Eaters.
Here is the interview from the Vernon Vipers YouTube page,
Vipers Alumni Williamson Records Three Points In Loss To Bulls:
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added two assists in an 8-6 loss February 11th 2023 to the Birmingham Bulls.
Here is the press release from the Knoxville Ice Bears website,
Williamson is in his first season with the Southern Professional Hockey League Knoxville Ice Bears. In 41 games, Williamson has (5-goals-19-assists-24-points). The Ice Bears signed Williamson this past summer.
Williamson played the past two seasons with the Federal Prospects Hockey League Columbus River Dragons. Williamson broke his leg in his first ever game with the River Dragons, missing the entire 2019-20 season. In 31 games last season, Williamson collected (14-goals-19-assists-33-points).
Williamson committed to Michigan Tech University for the 2019-20 season, but ended up signing a professional contract with the Federal Prospects Hockey League Columbus River Dragons for the 2019-20 season.
Williamson played five seasons in Vernon from 2014-2019. In 233 games with the Vipers, Williamson collected (54-goals-119-assists-173-points).
Williamson and former Vernon Lakers/Vernon Vipers forward Garth Gartner hold the franchise record for most games played with 233 games each. Gartner played four seasons in Vernon from 1994-1998 with the Vernon Lakers & Vernon Vipers.
The Vernon Lakers were around from 1980-1995 before changing their name to the Vernon Vipers in 1995.
Tuesday, February 21, 2023
Adam Marshall's Overtime Winning Goal:
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the visiting Trail Smoke Eaters a 3-2 overtime victory over the Vernon Vipers February 20th 2023 in front of 2,937 fans at Kal Tire Place.
Here is Adam Marshall's overtime winning goal from the Trail Smoke Eaters twitter account,
Adam Marshall's Player Profile:
Ex Viper Holt Hitting Next Gear After Delayed Start To The Season:
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Saskatchewan Huskies lineup in November after missing nearly the entire second half of last season from a knee injury.
Here is the story from thestarphoenix.com,
Huskies' Holt hitting next gear after delayed start to the season | The Star Phoenix
Holt is in his third season at the University of Saskatchewan. In 20 games this season, Holt has (1-goal-6-assists-7-points).
Holt played parts of five seasons in the Western Hockey League with Vancouver & Regina before signing with the Vernon Vipers October 15th 2019. Holt played one season in Vernon with the 2019-20 Vernon Vipers. In 41 games, Holt collected (23-goals-24-assists-47-points).
Dawson Holt's Player Profile:
Monday, February 20, 2023
Trail 3 Vernon 2 Overtime
I was born and raised in Vernon, BC and been watching/following Junior hockey in Vernon my whole life. My family watched Senior men's hockey in Vernon in the 1950's and has been watching Junior hockey in Vernon since it started in 1961. I have two family members that played Junior hockey in Vernon. I have had season tickets since 1990 and missed 5 home games since 2004 and 46 home games since 1990. I started and created this blog in November 2008 and have over 2.2 million viewers. For anyone who couldn't watch or attend tonight's Vipers game, here are my thoughts and views from tonight's hockey game. You may agree or disagree, but we all have our own opinion on the hockey game and see things differently. I try to be professional and give a fare game recap from both sides. Thank you for visiting my blog.
I was at today's Vipers-Smoke Eaters game as Trail defeated Vernon 3-2 in overtime in front of 2,937 fans at Kal Tire Place.
Starting Goaltenders:
Vernon Vipers: Ethan David
Trail Smoke Eaters: Teagan Kendrick
2nd Period: The Snakes thought they took a 2-1 lead almost three minutes into the period but the goal was waived off. The officials said the puck was kicked into the net. The Vipers with a goal mouth scramble had several wacks at a loose puck in and around the goal about five minutes into the 2nd period, couldn't find the back of the net before some pushing and shoving occurred. Just before the midway mark, the Vipers would get their second power play of the afternoon. Shorthanded Smokies leading scorer Brady Hunter would get a partial breakaway, missed the net before crashing into the end wall. Hunter stayed down for several seconds as the play continued before making his way to the bench. Hunter was attended to by the Smoke Eaters trainer and stayed in the contest. Vernon unable to generate much with the man advantage as Trail killed off the minor. Just over three minutes later, the Snakes went back to the PP but again couldn't capitalize with the man advantage. With about six minutes remaining Brady Hunter with some slick moves across Vernon's blueline, setup Evan Bushy who ripped a quick shot from the high slot, forcing Vernon Vipers starting netminder Ethan David into making a large save, keeping this game tied. It was 1-1 after 40 minutes of play. The Vipers were the better team, carried the better of the play, had lots of zone time, didn't get a lot of quality opportunities but had several shots from in close and in and around the crease on a couple of scrambles at the top of the crease, couldn't catch a break/bounce to go in. Vernon went 0-2 with the man advantage while giving up a shorthanded breakaway. Ethan David looked a little shaky at times handling the puck outside the crease. The Viper goaltender almost coughed up the puck on at least three different occasions. Trail saw a lot of play in their own end, didn't see a lot of time in the offensive zone but did get two very good quality chances. Teagan Kendrick was good between the pipes. Trail's Head Coach/GM Tim Fragle was very vocal from the bench, thought his team should have gotten a few power play's that period. Shots were 14-6 Vernon.
3rd Period: Off the opening puck drop, Hank Cleaves drove towards the net on an odd man rush, couldn't get off a quick enough shot that was stopped by Teagan Kendrick. The Snakes with a flurry of chances in and around the net unable to take the lead. The Smokies would get their first power play of the afternoon 1:07 into the 3rd period. Shorthanded Luke Pakulak one on one, ripped a shot from outside the circle, beating Teagan Kendrick short side, giving Vernon a 2-1 lead at 1:34 Anson McMaster drew the lone assist. The visiting Trail Smoke Eaters had a couple of looks but Ethan David made the stops as the Vipers killed off the penalty. About two minutes later Nick Remissong with two quality opportunities, couldn't tie the hockey game as Ethan David come up with two big stops. Just past the halfway mark, Brady Hunter tied the game 2-2 at 11:28 Adam Parsons and Nick Remissong picked up the assists. Just over three minutes later, Vernon would get a late PP before taking a penalty of their own. Ethan David was called for interference on a play where the Trail player skated through the crease, bumping into David and falling down. David was called for interference on a blown call by the officials. The Snakes would kill off the penalty. With about 1:40ish remaining Isaac Tremblay looked to have Trail Smoke Eaters starting goaltender Teagan Kendrick deked out, but somehow the goaltender was able to sprawl across and make the save late in the hockey game with the game tied. It was 2-2 after 60 minutes of play. I thought the Smokies had the edge in play and the better team. Trail for the first time this afternoon, would have a little more puck possession and zone time. The Vipers couldn't hold on to the lead, had a few looks but weren't sharp. Trail outshot Vernon 9-7.
Overtime: The hometown Vernon Vipers had early control but were looking for the perfect play, didn't get a shot in overtime. Adam Parsons setup Adam Marshall for the overtime game winning goal at 2:17 sending the Smokies bench into a frenzy as the Smoke Eaters poured onto the ice in celebration. Trail outshot Vernon 3-0.
Vernon Vipers Top Player's:
Dylan Compton Played very well on the Snakes blueline. Compton was involved in the offensive side of the game and defensive side of the game, was creating/generating plays all afternoon
Thomas Tien Played with a ton of jump/energy was buzzing all game
Hank Cleaves (1 assist) Played very well, was creating/generating plays
Lee Parks (1 assist) was another Viper forward that played with a lot of speed, jump and energy and was making plays happen
Anson McMaster (1 assist) I thought played very well on the backend
Luke Pakulak (1 goal) Was physical, used his size to create some open ice and make plays was involved in the play at times. Scored once (shorthanded)
Game Thought's: Vernon Vipers
- I was told the Vipers returned home late yesterday evening from their two game Island road trip over the weekend and it showed as Vernon didn't look sharp or very crisp to start the hockey game, weren't moving their legs, making some poor passes/poor plays through out the game
- The Vipers have played seven of their past ten games on the road
- Vernon went 1-4 with the power play
- Walker Erickson played 31 games with the 2019-20 Trail Smoke Eaters
- This afternoon was the biggest crowd of the season. Today's attendance was announced at 2,937
- These two teams will meet again Saturday in Trail
- The Snakes didn't have any puck luck or have the bounces go their way
- I thought the Vipers were the better team but didn't look very sharp through out the contest
- Vernon Junior Hockey Alumni Aaron Volpatti, Trevor McEachnie, Mark Ferner & Ed Johnstone were in attendance
- The Snakes are one point back of Wenatchee, three points back of Salmon Arm, five points back of Prince George and six points back of West Kelowna
- The Vipers played with the lead twice, couldn't get that insurance goal to grab a two goal lead
- The Snakes PK was good, killing off both penalties
- The Vipers are 1-1 vs Trail this season
- A very disappointing loss this afternoon. You need to beat teams below you in the standings at this time of the year
- Ethan David (26 saves) looked shaky at times, especially coming out of his net to play the puck
- I heard a rumor from a season ticket holder, Vipers Head Coach/GM Jason McKee's contract is up at the end of this season
- If the Vipers finish in and around the net, this game is not close and no where near going to overtime
- The Vipers next game is Friday in Cranbrook
- The Snakes next home game isn't until March 10th vs Salmon Arm
- One section of seats that was pushed back for a concert on February 10th still has yet to be put back into place
- Vernon plays six of their final ten regular season games on the road
- The Vipers have lost back to back games both in overtime
- This was a game the Snakes needed to dig deep and pull out the win if they want to climb the standings before playoffs
- This was a costly loss as the Vipers would have been tied in points with Wenatchee, instead are a point back of the 6th place Wild
- With the loss, Vernon falls to 20-18-2-4 sit 7th in the Interior Division
Trail Smoke Eater's Top Player's:
Alec Whipple played well on the Smokies defence
Brady Hunter (1 goal) leads the team in points with 44 was by far Trail's best forward. This kid is quick, has some speed, can move the puck and very skilled. Was dangerous and a threat every time on the ice
Teagan Kendrick (36 saves) Was one of the difference makers this afternoon, making some big stops was solid between the pipes
Game Thought's: Trail Smoke Eaters
- I thought Trail got off to a good start, had the early edge in play, were up 5-1 in shots then slowly allowed the Vipers back into the hockey game. The Smokies were outplayed at times and through out the game but held their own and didn't allow Vernon to run away with the score. Trail stayed within a goal and was always in this game
- I spotted two Smoke Eater fans in attendance
- Today was Trail's third game of a four game road trip
- The Smoke Eaters went 0-2 with the man advantage
- Smoke Eaters Assistant Coach Dallas Calvin played with the 2013-14 Vernon Vipers
- Trail has only three wins in their last fifteen games
- The Smoke Eaters didn't get a lot of puck possession or zone time until the 3rd period, somehow managed to hang around and stay in the hockey game
- The Smokies didn't generate a whole lot of opportunities
- The Smoke Eaters are are twelve points ahead of 9th place Merritt and seven points back of 7th place Vernon
- The Smoke Eaters last regular season win in Vernon was a 4-1 victory on December 18th 2019
- Trail has lost eight of their last ten road games
- Nick Remissong played 37 games with the 2020-21 & 2021-22 Vernon Vipers
- The Smokies next game is Friday in West Kelowna
- The Vipers were the better team but overall this was a tight game and could have gone either way
- With the win, Trail improves to 17-21-2-3 sit 8th in the Interior Division
Scratches:
Vernon Vipers:
Connor Welsh
Ethan Sundar
Luke Ashton
Trail Smoke Eaters:
Ridge Dawson
Ethan Mann
Judah Makway
Maxim Potvin
Energy Player of the Game:
Lee Parks (1 assist)
Three Star's:
1st Star: Teagan Kendrick (36 saves)
2nd Star: Adam Marshall (Overtime Winner-1 assist)
3rd Star: Walker Erickson (1 goal)
Boxscore-Game Summary,
Game Report,
Text Box Score,
Vernon Junior Hockey History website,
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