Friday 8 May 2015

11 Players Selected by Royals at Bantam Draft

ROYALS SELECT 11 PLAYERS AT 2015 WHL BANTAM DRAFT

For Immediate Release
Thursday, May 7, 2015

Calgary, AB- The Victoria Royals are proud to announce the selection of 11 players at the 2015 WHL Bantam Draft in Calgary, AB today.

Of the Royals’ 11 draft picks British Columbia and Alberta each contributed three players, Saskatchewan supplied two skaters and Manitoba provided one player. Victoria’s remaining two selections were drafted from the United States (Arizona and Colorado). By position the Royals selected six forwards, four defencemen and one goalie.

Round 1

The Royals used their first pick, 13th overall, to select forward Eric Florchuk from the Fort Saskatchewan Rangers of the Alberta Major Bantam Hockey League (AMBHL). Florchuk, a 5-10, 140 lb centre, suited up in 33 games and amassed 46 points (24g-22a). The Fort Saskatchewan, AB native led his team to the league final of the 2015 AMBHL Playoffs. During the playoffs he notched 11 goals and nine assists for 20 points in 14 contests.

“Eric is a dynamic player who is gifted offensively and one of the best players our scouts have seen in recent years,” General Manager Cameron Hope said. “We are excited about his future in the Western Hockey League.”

Round 2

Victoria's second round selection, 35th overall, was used to draft 6-1, 180 lb defenceman Mitchell Prowse. The native of Kelowna, BC most recently played for the Okanagan Hockey Academy (OHA) of the Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL) where he collected seven assists and 24 penalty minutes in 18 games. Prowse helped OHA win the CSSHL Championship and accumulated three points (1g-2a) in four games.

“Mitchell has pro-potential,” Royals’ Assistant GM, Player Personnel Grant Armstrong said. “He is a very good defender with solid offensive instincts. We believe he is going to be a tremendous fit for our program.”

Round 3

With the 57th overall selection, the Royals chose 5-10, 165 lb forward Kaid Oliver from the Arizona Bobcats U16 AAA team of the North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL). The product of Scottsdale, AZ collected 12 points (6g-6a) last season to go along with 40 penalty minutes over 20 games.

"Oliver is power-forward who is smart, skilled and physical," Royals’ Director of Scouting Garry Pochipinski said.

The Royals used their second selection of the third round, 61st overall, to pick 6-1, 160 lb goaltender Dean McNabb. The Davidson, SK native spent the 2014-15 season with the Notre Dame Hounds Bantam AAA team of the South Saskatchewan Minor Hockey League (SSMHL). McNabb posted a 7-7-0 record with a 3.65 goals against average in 17 regular season games last year.

"Dean is a technical goaltender,” Pochipinski said. “He has quickness and moves well side-to-side."

Round 5

Victoria’s fifth round selection was used to draft forward Constandino Kambeitz. During the 2014-15 season, Kambeitz played for the Rocky Mountain RoughRiders of the Colorado Amateur Hockey Association (CAHA). The 5-11, 165 lb winger played in 15 games and collected seven points (5g-2a) and 14 penalty minutes.

"Kambeitz is a gifted and hardworking offensive player," Armstrong said.  "He has a nice touch around the net and works hard in all three zones of the rink.

Victoria grabbed Deloraine, MB product Grady Hobbs with their second pick of the fifth round, 102nd overall. This past season, the 5-8, 167 lb winger collected 50 points (27g-23a) over 31 games to go along with 100 penalty minutes for the South West Cougars B1 team of the Winnipeg AAA Hockey league.

"Grady is a gritty forward with offensive instincts," Armstrong said. "He is an effective forechecker who generates offense by his hard work."

Round 6

With the 112th overall pick the Royals selected defenceman Luke Bast from the Red Deer Rebels White Bantam AAA team of the AMBHL. Over 31 games the 5-6, 139 lb blueliner recorded 14 points (8g-6g) and 30 penalty minutes.

"Luke is a very intelligent defenceman who has outstanding offensive abilities," Pochipinski said. "He defends and moves the puck well.”

Round 7

The Royals used their seventh pick, 145th overall, to draft defender Matthew Smith. The Saskatoon, SK native most recently played for the Saskatoon Maniacs Bantam AA team in the Saskatchewan Bantam AA League (SBAAL). Smith collected 29 points (13g-16a) to go along with 10 penalty minutes in 31 games.

"Matthew is a versatile young defenceman who plays well at both ends of the ice,” Pochipinski said. “He has very good vision, reads the play well and moves the puck at the appropriate time.”

Round 9

Victoria selected Sean Gulka with the 182nd selection. Gulka, a 5-10, 145 lb centre, spent the 2014-15 season with the Burnaby Winter Club Bruins A1 team of the Pacific Coast Bantam Hockey League (PCBHL). Gulka helped the Bruins to a 3-2-0 record at the BC Provincials after they won the PCBHL Championship title.

"Sean plays on the edge and thus commands a lot of respect on the ice," Armstong said. "He is a player who will be difficult to play against."

With their second pick of the round, 189th overall, the Royals nabbed Victoria, BC native Lach Hadley from the Delta Bantam Prep team of the CSSHL. The 5-10, 155 lb winger played in 15 games where he picked up 15 points (5g-10a) to go along with eight penalty minutes. Hadley helped lead his team to a first place finish in their division with a 12-4-2 record. 

"Lach is a player who he has tremendous upside," Armstrong said. “We have seen continued improvement in his game and he has the potential to be a future Royal."

Round 10

Victoria's final pick, 211th overall, was used to select defenceman Gabe Bast, older brother of Royals' sixth round draft pick Luke Bast. The 1996-born blueliner is currently playing with the Penticton Vees of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL). During the regular season Bast collected 40 points (9g-31a) and 38 penalty minutes in 49 games. Currently participating in the RBC Cup, the 5-10, 185 lb defender has registered two goals and 10 assists for 12 points in 22 playoff contests.

"Gabe is an intelligent offensive defenceman that has exceptional puck handling skills, great vision and can defend well," Pochipinski said.

The WHL Bantam Draft is an annual event in which the clubs of the Western Hockey League select players who have graduated from bantam. For the 2015 draft, players born in 2000 are eligible. The Draft order is determined by way of points in the regular season, with the exception of teams that missed the WHL Playoffs which are placed into a draft lottery for the first round only. With the exception of the lottery results in the first round, teams will select in order of fewest to most regular season points.

During the bantam draft, players from Western Canada and the states of Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wyoming are eligible to be selected.


Season Tickets for the 2015-16 Royals season are on sale now. To arrange a meeting to pick your seats please call 250-220-7889 or visit the Victoria Royals ticket office at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre. 

Thursday 7 May 2015

Royals Selections at Bantam Draft

The Victoria Royals made 11 selections as the 2015 WHL Bantam Draft taking six forwards, four defenseman and a goaltender.  

With their 1st pick 13th overall, they chose speedy and skilled forward Erik Florchuk from Fort Saskatchewan Alberta.  

“Eric is a dynamic player who is gifted offensively and one of the best players our scouts have seen in recent years,” General Manager Cameron Hope said. “We are excited about his future in the Western Hockey League.

Florchuk spent the 2014-15 season with the Fort Saskatchewan Rangers of the Alberta Major Bantam Hockey League (AMBHL) where he collected 46 points (24g-22a) in 33 games. In 14 contests in the 2015 AMBHL Playoffs, Florchuk notched 11 goals and nine assists for 20 points as the Rangers fell in the finals. Florchuk was also named an all-star in this year’s Alberta Cup where he registered five points (4g-1a).

AUDIO: Grant Armstrong, Assistant General Manager, Player Personnel of the Victoria Royals.


Netminder Dean McNabb was taken in the third round and is the younger brother of Brayden McNabb, a defenseman for the NHL's Los Angeles Kings.  



The Royals also selected brothers Luke and Gabe Bast.  Victoria native Lach Hadley was taken in the 9th round, and Victoria Cougar Alumni Jim Kambeitz son Dino was selected in round 5.

For more audio, https://soundcloud.com/groups/victoria-royals-audio

Players in Order of Selection:
F - Erik Florchuk (rd 1) 13th overall
D - Mitchell Prowse (rd 2) 6'1 181
F - Kaid Oliver - (rd 3) USA Arizona - Dad family ties to Victoria
G - Dean McNabb (rd 3) 6'2 -  brother is Brayden McNabb D LosAngeles Kings
F - Dino Kambeitz (rd-5)  Colorado - Dad Jim Kambeitz played for Victoria Cougars
F - Grady Hobbs (rd-5)   
D - Luke Bast (rd-6)
D - Matthew Smith (rd-7)
F - Sean Gulka (rd-9)
F - Lach Hadley (rd-9) from Victoria
D - Gabe Bast (rd-10) '96 Born, Brother to Luke Bast 


























2015 WHL BANTAM DRAFT RESULTS

2015 WHL BANTAM DRAFT RESULTS
Ty Smith selected first overall by Spokane Chiefs.

Calgary, AB – The Western Hockey League conducted the 2015 WHL Bantam Draft on Thursday, May 7, in Calgary, AB.

This year, players born in 2000 from eligible provinces and American states were able to be selected as WHL Clubs looked to add key pieces to their future.

After acquiring the Saskatoon Blades’ first round pick in a trade and subsequently winning the 2015 WHL Bantam Draft Lottery to retain the number one selection, the Spokane Chiefs chose defenceman Ty Smith from Lloydminster, AB first overall.

In total, 231 players were selected on Thursday; 127 forwards, 85 defencemen and 19 goaltenders.

By territory, 72 players hail from Alberta, 60 from BC, 36 from Manitoba, 33 from Saskatchewan and 30 from the United States.

2015 WHL Bantam Draft Results

First Round

#1 – Spokane Chiefs (from Saskatoon)
Name: Ty Smith            Position: Defence          Hometown: Lloydminster, AB
Previous Team: Delta Academy Bantam Prep (CSSHL)
Stats: 16 GP – 9G – 19A – 28PTS – 14 PIMS

#2 – Lethbridge Hurricanes
Name: Calen Addison            Position: Defence          Hometown: Brandon, MB
Previous Team: Brandon Wheat Kings Bantam AAA
Stats: 31 GP – 45G – 31A – 76PTS – 46 PIMS

#3 – Vancouver Giants
Name: Tyler Popowich           Position: Forward          Hometown: Surrey, BC
Previous Team: Okanagan Hockey Academy Bantam Prep
Stats: 19 GP – 11G – 12A – 23PTS – 27 PIMS

#4 – Moose Jaw Warriors (from Kamloops)
Name: Jett Woo           Position: Defence          Hometown: Winnipeg, MB
Previous Team: Winnipeg Warriors Bantam AAA
Stats: 31 GP – 10G – 27A – 37PTS – 50 PIMS

#5 – Prince Albert Raiders
Name: Cole Fonstad            Position: Forward         Hometown: Estevan, SK
Previous Team: Estevan Bruins Bantam AA
Stats: 29 GP – 36G – 31A – 67PTS – 30 PIMS

#6 – Moose Jaw Warriors
Name: Luka Burzan           Position: Forward          Hometown: Surrey, BC
Previous Team: North Shore Winter Club Bantam A1-T1
Stats: 62 GP – 80G – 51A – 131PTS – 40 PIMS

#7 – Tri-City Americans
Name: Carson Focht           Position: Forward          Hometown: Regina, SK
Previous Team: Notre Dame Hounds Bantam AAA
Stats: 38 GP – 39G – 31A – 70PTS – 66 PIMS

#8 – Prince George Cougars
Name: Jackson Leppard           Position: Forward          Hometown: North Vancouver, BC
Previous Team: North Shore Winter Club Bantam A1-T1
Stats: 63 GP – 46G – 43A – 89PTS – 124 PIMS

#9 – Spokane Chiefs
Name: Koby Morrisseau          Position: Forward         Hometown: Grandview, MB
Previous Team: Parkland Rangers Bantam AAA
Stats: 20 GP – 39G – 22A – 61PTS – 79 PIMS

#10 – Swift Current Broncos
Name: Riley Stotts           Position: Forward          Hometown: Winnipeg, MB
Previous Team: Winnipeg Monarchs Bantam AAA
Stats: 29 GP – 39G – 29A – 68PTS – 40 PIMS

#11 – Edmonton Oil Kings
Name: Ethan Cap          Position: Defence         Hometown: North Vancouver, BC
Previous Team: North Shore Winter Club Bantam A1-T1
Stats: 64 GP – 9G – 36A – 45PTS – 72 PIMS

#12 – Saskatoon Blades (from Kootenay)
Name: Jonathan Tychonick         Position: Defence         Hometown: Calgary, AB
Previous Team: Calgary Northwest Flames Bantam AAA
Stats: 33 GP – 20G – 38A – 58PTS – 72 PIMS

#13 – Victoria Royals
Name: Eric Florchuk           Position: Forward          Hometown: Fort Saskatchewan, AB
Previous Team: Fort Saskatchewan Rangers Bantam AAA
Stats: 33 GP – 24G – 22A – 46PTS – 24 PIMS

#14 – Regina Pats
Name: Dawson Barteaux           Position: Defence          Hometown: Foxwarren, MB
Previous Team: Yellowhead Chiefs Bantam AAA
Stats: 31 GP – 7G – 20A – 27PTS – 18 PIMS

#15 – Seattle Thunderbirds
Name: Elijah Brown         Position: Forward         Hometown: Edmonton, AB
Previous Team: SSAC Lions Bantam AAA
Stats: 31 GP – 18G – 23A – 41PTS – 46 PIMS

#16 – Red Deer Rebels
Name: Jacob Herauf        Position: Defence         Hometown: Sherwood Park, AB
Previous Team: Sherwood Park Flyers Bantam AAA
Stats: 33 GP – 6G – 17A – 23PTS – 22 PIMS

#17 – Portland Winterhawks
-No Selection-

#18 – Medicine Hat Tigers
Name: Ryan Chyzowski          Position: Forward          Hometown: Kamloops, BC
Previous Team: Kamloops Blazers Bantam T1-A1
Stats: Recorded eight points (4g-4a) in six games played at 2014-15 U16 Cup.

#19 – Saskatoon Blades (from Everett)
Name: Chase Wouters         Position: Forward         Hometown: Lloydminster, AB
Previous Team: Lloydminster Heat Bantam AAA
Stats: 32 GP – 19G – 38A – 57PTS – 46 PIMS

#20 – Calgary Hitmen
Name: Tristen Nielsen       Position: Forward         Hometown: Calgary, AB
Previous Team: Edge Academy Bantam Prep
Stats:  18 GP – 18G – 7A – 25PTS – 49 PIMS

#21 – Prince Albert Raiders (from Kelowna)
Name: Carson Miller     Position: Forward         Hometown: Yorkton, SK
Previous Team: Yorkton Terriers Bantam AA
Stats: 31 GP –  49G – 58A – 107PTS – 58 PIMS

#22 – Brandon Wheat Kings
Name: Caiden Daley     Position: Forward         Hometown: Winnipeg, MB
Previous Team: Winnipeg Warriors Bantam AAA
Stats: 32 GP – 23G – 38A – 61PTS – 30 PIMS


Players selected in the first round by position:
Forwards - 14
Defencemen - 7
Goaltenders - 0

Players selected in the first round by region:
BC – 5
AB – 7
SK – 3
MB – 6


ROUND TWO

23. Kamloops, Jackson Shepard, LW, West Vancouver, BC; 24. Lethbridge, Josh Tarswell, C, Red Deer, AB; 25. Tri-City, Paycen B,jorklund, RW, Grande Prairie, AB; 26. Kamloops, Devan Harrison, D, Dysart, SK; 27. Vancouver, Kaleb Bulych, D, Yorkton, SK; 28. Prince Albert, Spencer Moe, C, Calgary, AB; 29. Prince George, Jonas Harkins, D, North Vancouver, BC; 30. Moose Jaw, Austin Chorney, D, Calgary, AB; 31. Spokane, Matthew Leduc, D, Richmond, BC; 32. Swift Current, Owen Blocker, RW, Dugald, MB; 33. Edmonton, Jayden Platz, D, St. Albert, AB; 34. Kootenay, Keena Taphorn, RW, Yorkton, SK; 35. Victoria, Mitchell Prowse, D, Kelowna, BC; 36. Red Deer, Eli Zummack, C, Kelowna, BC; 37. Seattle, Carl Stankowski, G, Calgary, AB; 38. Spokane, Damon Zimmer, C, Camrose, AB; 39. Saskatoon, Payton McIsaac, D, Fort Saskatchewan, AB; 40. Medicine Hat, Layne Matechuk, D, Colonsay, SK; 41. Everett, Brett Kemp, C, Yorkton, SK; 42. Calgary, Noah Geekie, RW, Strathclair, MB; 43. Kelowna, Nolan Foote, LW, Englewood, CO; 44. Brandon, Sean Comrie, D, Edmonton, AB;

ROUND THREE 

45. Saskatoon, Matthew Mosher, RW, Surrey, BC; 46. Medicine Hat, Cole Clayton, D, Strathmore, AB; 47. Vancouver, Kaeden Taphorn, LW, Yorkton, SK; 48. Moose Jaw, Louis Jamernik, RW, Calgary, AB; 49. Tri-City, Seth Bafaro, D, Revelstoke, BC; 50. Red Deer, Chase Lowry, C, Edmonton, AB; 51. Brandon, Rylan Bettens, RW, Winnipeg, MB; 52. Seattle, Connor Pyne, LW, White City, SK; 53. Spokane, Donovan Buskey, G, North Vancouver, BC; 54. Swift Current, Ethan Martini, D, Trail, BC; 55. Edmonton, Jude Butler, F, Fort Saskatchewan, AB; 56. Kootenay, Loeden Schaufler, D, Dewinton, AB; 57. Victoria, Kaid Oliver, C, Scottsdale, AZ; 58. Regina, Bryan Lockner, RW, Windsor, CO; 59. Lethbridge, Tyler Strath, D, Carseland, AB; 60. Everett, Ian Walker, D, Vancouver, BC; 61. Victoria, Dean McNabb, G, Davidson, SK; 62. Regina, Tyler Pryhitka, D, Melville, SK; 63. Everett, Montana Onyebuchi, D, Dugald, MB; 64. Prince Albert, Tyler Lowe, D, Calgary, AB; 65. Kelowna, Ted Brennan, C, Malahat, BC; 66. Prince George, Tyler Ho, RW, North Vancouver, BC;

ROUND FOUR


67. Moose Jaw, Erik Middendorf, C, Scottsdale, AZ; 68. Everett, Ryan Savage, C, Scottsdale, AZ; 69. Red Deer, Brendan Budy, C, Langley, BC; 70. Portland, Ty Kolle, C, Kamloops, BC; 71. Tri-City, Liam Belcourt, D, Sherwood Park, AB; 72. Kelowna, Konrad Belcourt, D, Sherwood Park, AB; 73. Tri-City, Brenden Saether, D, Abbotsford, BC; 74. Calgary, Zach Huber, C, Millarville, AB; 75. Spokane, Colum McGauley, C, Wilcox, SK; 76. Edmonton, Lance Alm, G, Rockhaven, SK; 77. Calgary, Jake Davidson, G, Osler, SK; 78. Kootenay, Eli Lieffers, C, Saskatoon, SK; 79. Vancouver, Alex Kannok-Leipert, D, Regina, SK; 80. Everett, Gianni Fairbrother, D, North Vancouver, BC; 81. Kamloops, Ryley Appelt, C, Edmonton, AB; 82. Kamloops, Luka Zazula, D, Langley, BC; 83. Medicine Hat, Baxter Anderson, C, Burnaby, BC; 84. Kamloops, Brodi Stuart, LW, Langley, BC; 85. Calgary, Layne Toder, D, Elkhom, MB; 86. Calgary, Brevin Gervais, D, Prince George, BC; 87. Kelowna, Liam Kindree, LW, North Vancouver, BC; 88. Brandon, Brandon Peacock, G, Quesnel, BC;

ROUND FIVE

89. Everett, Nick Castro, LW, Redondo Beach, CA; 90. Victoria, Constandino Kambeitz, F, Parker, CO; 91. Medicine Hat, Duncan McGovern, G, Winnipeg, MB; 92. Swift Current, Josh Prokop, C, Edmonton, AB; 93. Tri-City, Keltie Jeri-Leon, C, West Kelowna, BC; 94. Saskatoon, Tyler Lees, C, Regina, SK; 95. Moose Jaw, Kale Clouston, RW, Rockyview, AB; 96. Brandon, Ty Ettinger, D, Ardrossan, AB; 97. Prince Albert, Lane Kirk, D, Swan River, MB; 98. Swift Current, Jacob Bernard-Docker, D, Canmore, AB; 99. Edmonton, Scott Atkinson, C, Vancouver, BC; 100. Kamloops, Carson Denomie, C, Regina, SK; 101. Saskatoon, Brandon Machado, C, Airdrie, AB; 102. Victoria, Grady Hobbs, RW, Deloraine, MB; 103. Seattle, Kabir Gill, D, White Rock, BC; 104. Tri-City, Jack Barnes, C, Plano, TX; 105. Portland, Bradley Ginnell, LW, Calgary, AB; 106. Medicine Hat, Michael Johnson, RW, Calgary, AB; 107. Everett, Orrin Centazzo, F, Marwayne, AB; 108. Calgary, Andrea Esposito, D, Winnipeg, MB; 109. Tri-City, Ryan O’Reilly, C, Southlake, TX; 110. Spokane, Noah Westgate, C, Beaumont, AB;

ROUND SIX


111. Seattle, Dillon Hamaliuk, LW, Leduc, AB; 112. Victoria, Luke Bast, D, Red Deer, AB; 113. Kelowna, Kelvin Hair, D, North Vancouver, BC; 114. Prince George, Reid Perepeluk, D, Yorkton, SK; 115. Edmonton, Nicholas Bowman, C, Sherwood Park, AB; 116. Prince Albert, Chase Felgueiras, D, Calgary, AB; 117. Calgary, Justyn Gurney, LW, Delta, BC; 118. Everett, Dawson Butt, C, Buckley, WA; 119. Moose Jaw, Lucas Pringle, D, Edmonton, AB; 120. Lethbridge, Zach Kosteniuk, C, White City, SK; 121. Everett, Ethan Scardina, C, Surrey, BC; 122. Kootenay, Benjamin Sanderson, LW, Calgary, AB; 123. Kootenay, Bobby Russell, D, Langley, BC; 124. Red Deer, Jacob Thomson, D, Brandon, MB; 125. Seattle, Tyler Carpendale, F, Powell River, BC; 126. Regina, Lukas Sillinger, F, Regina, SK; 127. Portland, Stanislav Demin, D, Cypress, CA; 128. Medicine Hat, Trevor Longo, D, North Vancouver, BC; 129. Everett, Will Brown, D, Denver, CO; 130. Calgary, Cody Levesque, G, Carnduff, SK; 131. Kelowna, Kyle Pow, D, Nanaimo, BC; 132. Brandon, Garrett Sambrook, D, Medora, MB;

ROUND SEVEN

133. Spokane, Jevon (Chevy) Schwean, D, Moosomin, SK; 134. Lethbridge, Shawn Harke, C, Leduc County, AB; 135. Vancouver, Devlin McCabe, C, St. Paul, MN; 136. Kamloops, Jake Tremblay, C, Pense, SK; 137. Tri-City, Jaxon Nelson, C, Magnolia, MN; 138. Prince Albert, Garrett Clegg, RW, Sturgeon County, AB; 139. Prince George, Liam Ryan, RW, Burnaby, BC; 140. Moose Jaw, Brecon Wood, LW, Edmonton, AB; 141. Spokane, Joel Krahenbil, C, Strathmore, AB; 142. Prince Albert, Justin Nachbaur, LW, Cross Lake, MB; 143. Edmonton, Wyatt McLeod, D, Dawson Creek, BC; 144. Kootenay, Michael King, C, Winnipeg, MB; 145. Victoria, Matthew Smith, D, Saskatoon, SK; 146. Regina, Jack Lenchyshyn, D, Steinbach, MB; 147. Seattle, Tyson Terretta, D, High River, AB; 148. Red Deer, Jace Foskey, D, Southlake, TX; 149. Portland, Nick Cicek, D, Winnipeg, MB; 150. Medicine Hat, Dawson Heathcote, LW, Nanaimo, BC; 151. Everett, Zachary Bennett, G, St. Paul, MB; 152. Calgary, Noah Prokop, C, Littleton, CO; 153. Kelowna, James Porter, G, Bonners Ferry, ID; 154. Brandon, Marcus Sekundiak, C, Oak Bluff, MB;

ROUND EIGHT

155. Regina, Mackenzie Belinski, F, Vista, MB; 156. Lethbridge, Dylan Flynn, D, Edmonton, AB; 157. Vancouver, Jacob Wassermann, G, Humboldt, SK; 158. Kamloops, Kaiden Collumb, D, Fort Saskatchewan, AB; 159. Tri-City, Keegan Rowland, F, Lloydminster, AB; 160. Prince Albert, Gavin Hain, C, Grand Rapids, MN; 161. Prince George, Isaiah DiLauria, G, Lakeville, MN; 162. Moose Jaw, Coleton Bilodeau, RW, Vernon, BC; 163. Spokane. Luke Gallagher, D, Mead, WA; 164. Swift Current, Maxwell Struss, D, Spruce Grove, AB; 165. Edmonton, David Kope, RW, Edmonton, AB; 166. Kootenay, Luke Penner, D, Saskatoon, SK; 167. Lethbridge, Tristan Jones, C, Edmonton, AB; 168. Regina, Riley Krane, C, Dawson Creek, BC; 169. Seattle, Chase Sakic, F, Englewood, CO; 170. Red Deer, Spencer McHardy, D, Calgary, AB; 171. Portland, Ilijah Colina, C, Delta, BC; 172. Medicine Hat, Josh McNeil, C, Sylvan Lake, AB; 173. Everett, Demetrios Koumontzis, F, Edina, MN; 174. Calgary, Andrew Viggars, D, Calgary, AB; 175. Kelowna, Reid Robertson, C, Winnipeg, MB; 176. Saskatoon, Powell Connor, D, Coldstream, BC;

ROUND NINE

177. Saskatoon, K’Andre Miller, D, Hopkins, MN; 178. Lethbridge, Jackson Salt, RW, Okotoks, AB; 179. Vancouver, Haydn Delorme, RW, Port Moody, BC; 180. Kamloops, Tanner Bahm, LW, Dawson Creek, BC; 181. Kelowna, Cole DeKoninck, D, Lorette, MB; 182. Victoria, Sean Gulka, C, Langley, BC; 183. Prince George, Zach Minaker, D, Kitimat, BC; 184. Moose Jaw, Rin Beny, RW, Melville, SK; 185. Spokane, Cedric Chenier, C, Winnipeg, MB; 186. Swift Current, Quinton Waitzner, LW, Victoria, BC; 187. Edmonton, Logan Moon, RW, Beaverlodge, AB; 188. Kootenay, Michael Araki-Young, C, Richmond, BC; 189. Victoria, Lach Hadley, LW, Victoria, BC; 190. Regina, Owen Williams, D, Delta, BC; 191. Medicine Hat, Brennan Davis, D, Camrose, AB; 192. Red Deer, Brandon Cutler, F, Spruce Grove, AB; 193. Portland, Jonathan Rees, F, Aldergrove, BC; 194. Medicine Hat, Tucker Zdunich, LW, High River, AB; 195. Everett, Curtis Ireland, D, Brandon, MB; 196. Calgary, Hunter Lamb, F, Swift Current, SK; 197. Kelowna, Trevor Gulenchyn, LW, Lake Country, BC; 198. Brandon, Cole Reinhardt, LW, Irricana, AB;

ROUND TEN


199. Saskatoon, Reid Miller, D, Gilbert, AZ; 200. Lethbridge, Blair Bush, D, Edmonton, AB; 201. Vancouver, Jack Judson, D, Surrey, BC; 202. Kamloops, Sean Strange, D, Saanich, BC; 203. Vancouver, Todd Scott, G, Albertville, MN; 204. Prince Albert, Yauheni Astrouski, LW, Edmonton, AB; 205. Prince George, Isaac Saniga, C, Spruce Grove, AB; 206. Moose Jaw, Riley Sierhuis, D, Winnipeg, MB; 207. Spokane, Mitchell Reidy, G, St. Albert, AB; 208. Swift Current, Matt Allardyce, F, Saskatoon, SK; 209. Edmonton, Benjamin Coppinger, F, Winnipeg, MB; 210. Kootenay, Lucas Gaudet, D, Kelowna, BC; 211. Victoria, Gabe Bast, D, Red Deer, AB; 212. Regina, Max Paddock, G, Brandon, MB; 213. Seattle, Isaiah Cockerill, RW, Winnipeg, MB; 214. Red Deer, Jake Mulder, C, Abbotsford, BC; 215. Portland, Noah Kim, D, Fullerton, CA; 216. Medicine Hat, PASS; 217. Everett, PASS; 218. Calgary, PASS; 219. Moose Jaw, Adam Evanoff, G, Manning, AB; 220. Brandon, Brendan Benoit, G, Winnipeg, MB;

ROUND ELEVEN

221. Saskatoon, Kyler Douglas, D, McTaggart, SK; 222. Lethbridge, Adam Swan, G, Ashem, MB; 223. Vancouver, Jack Lagerstrom, D, Edina, MN; 224. Kamloops, PASS; 225. Saskatoon, Jordan Wilde, G, Lake Country, BC; 226. Prince Albert, PASS; 227. Prince George, Colin Schmidt, F, Maple Grove, MN; 228. Moose Jaw, PASS; 229. Spokane, Riley Johnson, C, Winnipeg, MB; 230. Swift Current, Ethan Regnier, F, Prince Albert, SK; 231. Vancouver, PASS; 232. Kootenay, Austin Wong, F, Cochrane, AB; 233. Victoria, PASS; 234. Regina, PASS; 235. Seattle, PASS; 236. Red Deer, PASS; 237. Portland, Justin Paul, RW, Sherwood Park, AB; 238. Medicine Hat, PASS; 239. Everett, PASS; 240. Calgary, PASS; 241. Kelowna, Jackson Wozniak, C, Anaheim, CA; 242. Brandon, Rylan Hoffman, LW, Lac du Bonnet, MB;

ROUND TWELVE

243. Saskatoon, Jared Bowman, D, Calgary, AB; 244. Lethbridge, PASS; 245. Vancouver, PASS; 246. Kamloops, PASS; 247. Tri-City, PASS; 248. Prince Albert: PASS; 249. Prince George: PASS; 250: Moose Jaw: PASS; 251. Spokane: PASS; 252. Swift Current, Dominic Turner, C, Calgary, AB; 253. Edmonton, PASS; 254. Lethbridge, PASS; 255. Victoria. PASS; 256. Regina. PASS; 257. Seattle. PASS; 258. Red Deer. PASS; 259. Portland. Dawson Klein, D, Lakeville, MN; 260. Medicine Hat, PASS; 261. Everett, PASS; 262. Calgary, PASS; 263. Kelowna, Carter Giampietro, D, West Vancouver, BC; 264. Brandon, PASS

Round 1 - WHL Bantam Draft Selections

FIRST ROUND OF 2015 WHL BANTAM DRAFT CONCLUDES
Ty Smith selected first overall by Spokane Chiefs

Calgary, AB – The first round of the 2015 WHL Bantam Draft has concluded from the Deerfoot Inn in Calgary this morning.

This year, players born in 2000 from eligible provinces and American states were able to be selected as WHL Clubs looked to add key pieces to their future.

After acquiring the Saskatoon Blades’ first round pick in a trade and subsequently winning the 2015 WHL Bantam Draft Lottery to retain the number one selection, the Spokane Chiefs chose defenceman Ty Smith from Lloydminster, AB first overall.

2015 WHL Bantam Draft Results – First Round

#1 – Spokane Chiefs (from Saskatoon)
Name: Ty Smith            Position: Defence          Hometown: Lloydminster, AB
Previous Team: Delta Academy Bantam Prep (CSSHL)
Stats: 16 GP – 9G – 19A – 28PTS – 14 PIMS

#2 – Lethbridge Hurricanes
Name: Calen Addison            Position: Defence          Hometown: Brandon, MB
Previous Team: Brandon Wheat Kings Bantam AAA
Stats: 31 GP – 45G – 31A – 76PTS – 46 PIMS

#3 – Vancouver Giants
Name: Tyler Popowich           Position: Forward          Hometown: Surrey, BC
Previous Team: Okanagan Hockey Academy Bantam Prep
Stats: 19 GP – 11G – 12A – 23PTS – 27 PIMS

#4 – Moose Jaw Warriors (from Kamloops)
Name: Jett Woo           Position: Defence          Hometown: Winnipeg, MB
Previous Team: Winnipeg Warriors Bantam AAA
Stats: 31 GP – 10G – 27A – 37PTS – 50 PIMS

#5 – Prince Albert Raiders
Name: Cole Fonstad            Position: Forward         Hometown: Estevan, SK
Previous Team: Estevan Bruins Bantam AA
Stats: 29 GP – 36G – 31A – 67PTS – 30 PIMS

#6 – Moose Jaw Warriors
Name: Luka Burzan           Position: Forward          Hometown: Surrey, BC
Previous Team: North Shore Winter Club Bantam A1-T1
Stats: 62 GP – 80G – 51A – 131PTS – 40 PIMS

#7 – Tri-City Americans
Name: Carson Focht           Position: Forward          Hometown: Regina, SK
Previous Team: Notre Dame Hounds Bantam AAA
Stats: 38 GP – 39G – 31A – 70PTS – 66 PIMS

#8 – Prince George Cougars
Name: Jackson Leppard           Position: Forward          Hometown: North Vancouver, BC
Previous Team: North Shore Winter Club Bantam A1-T1
Stats: 63 GP – 46G – 43A – 89PTS – 124 PIMS

#9 – Spokane Chiefs
Name: Koby Morrisseau          Position: Forward         Hometown: Grandview, MB
Previous Team: Parkland Rangers Bantam AAA
Stats: 20 GP – 39G – 22A – 61PTS – 79 PIMS

#10 – Swift Current Broncos
Name: Riley Stotts           Position: Forward          Hometown: Winnipeg, MB
Previous Team: Winnipeg Monarchs Bantam AAA
Stats: 29 GP – 39G – 29A – 68PTS – 40 PIMS

#11 – Edmonton Oil Kings
Name: Ethan Cap          Position: Defence         Hometown: North Vancouver, BC
Previous Team: North Shore Winter Club Bantam A1-T1
Stats: 64 GP – 9G – 36A – 45PTS – 72 PIMS

#12 – Saskatoon Blades (from Kootenay)
Name: Jonathan Tychonick         Position: Defence         Hometown: Calgary, AB
Previous Team: Calgary Northwest Flames Bantam AAA
Stats: 33 GP – 20G – 38A – 58PTS – 72 PIMS

#13 – Victoria Royals
Name: Eric Florchuk           Position: Forward          Hometown: Fort Saskatchewan, AB
Previous Team: Fort Saskatchewan Rangers Bantam AAA
Stats: 33 GP – 24G – 22A – 46PTS – 24 PIMS

#14 – Regina Pats
Name: Dawson Barteaux           Position: Defence          Hometown: Foxwarren, MB
Previous Team: Yellowhead Chiefs Bantam AAA
Stats: 31 GP – 7G – 20A – 27PTS – 18 PIMS

#15 – Seattle Thunderbirds
Name: Elijah Brown         Position: Forward         Hometown: Edmonton, AB
Previous Team: SSAC Lions Bantam AAA
Stats: 31 GP – 18G – 23A – 41PTS – 46 PIMS

#16 – Red Deer Rebels
Name: Jacob Herauf        Position: Defence         Hometown: Sherwood Park, AB
Previous Team: Sherwood Park Flyers Bantam AAA
Stats: 33 GP – 6G – 17A – 23PTS – 22 PIMS

#17 – Portland Winterhawks
-No Selection-

#18 – Medicine Hat Tigers
Name: Ryan Chyzowski          Position: Forward          Hometown: Kamloops, BC
Previous Team: Kamloops Blazers Bantam T1-A1
Stats: Recorded eight points (4g-4a) in six games played at 2014-15 U16 Cup.

#19 – Saskatoon Blades (from Everett)
Name: Chase Wouters         Position: Forward         Hometown: Lloydminster, AB
Previous Team: Lloydminster Heat Bantam AAA
Stats: 32 GP – 19G – 38A – 57PTS – 46 PIMS

#20 – Calgary Hitmen
Name: Tristen Nielsen       Position: Forward         Hometown: Calgary, AB
Previous Team: Edge Academy Bantam Prep
Stats:  18 GP – 18G – 7A – 25PTS – 49 PIMS

#21 – Prince Albert Raiders (from Kelowna)
Name: Carson Miller     Position: Forward         Hometown: Yorkton, SK
Previous Team: Yorkton Terriers Bantam AA
Stats: 31 GP –  49G – 58A – 107PTS – 58 PIMS

#22 – Brandon Wheat Kings
Name: Caiden Daley     Position: Forward         Hometown: Winnipeg, MB
Previous Team: Winnipeg Warriors Bantam AAA
Stats: 32 GP – 23G – 38A – 61PTS – 30 PIMS


Players selected in the first round by position:
Forwards - 14
Defencemen - 7
Goaltenders - 0

Players selected in the first round by region:
BC – 5
AB – 7
SK – 3
MB – 6

The results of the remaining rounds of the 2015 WHL Bantam Draft will be available live at www.whl.ca/prospects and via the Official WHL Mobile App.


Wednesday 6 May 2015

WHL ANNOUNCES 2014-15 AWARD WINNERS

WHL ANNOUNCES 2014-15 AWARD WINNERS

Calgary, AB - The Western Hockey League held the annual WHL Awards today in Calgary, AB to honour the top performances from the 2014-15 WHL Regular Season.

Photos from the 2015 WHL Awards available HERE.
(Photo Credit: WHL/Brad Watson)

WHL Player of the Year – Four Broncos Memorial Trophy
WINNER: Oliver Bjorkstrand – Portland Winterhawks

A 1995-born forward from Herning, Denmark, Bjorkstrand enjoyed an explosive season for the Winterhawks to help the Club post a record of 43-23-2-4. This past year, it took Bjorkstrand 58 regular season games to amass 63 goals and 55 assists for 118 points to go along with a plus-60 rating.

Bjorkstrand’s 118 points ranked first in WHL regular season scoring while his 63 goals and plus-60 rating also led all players. Bjorkstrand led the League in shorthanded goals with eight while his 10 game-winning goals were tied for top spot. Bjorkstrand finished with 13 more goals than his nearest competitor, and is the third WHL player since the 2000-01 season to reach the 60-goal plateau. The 6’0, 168 lb forward set a franchise record with a 12-game goal streak from January 30th-March 6th. Bjorkstrand also recorded 36 multiple-point games and 16 multiple-goal games, including five hat tricks. 

Drafted by Portland 26th overall in the 2012 CHL Import Draft, Bjorkstrand has played 193 career regular season games for the Winterhawks and has totaled 290 points (144g-156a) with a plus-142 rating. Bjorkstrand was selected in the third round, 89th overall, by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2013 NHL Draft.


RUNNER UP: Tim McGauley – Brandon Wheat Kings


WHL Rookie of the Year - Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy
WINNER: Nolan Patrick – Brandon Wheat Kings

Patrick enjoyed a successful rookie season for the Brandon Wheat Kings in 2014-15. The 16-year-old from Winnipeg, Manitoba was seventh in team scoring and finished third among all WHL rookies in scoring with 56 points (30g-26a) in 55 games. Patrick’s 30 goals were first among WHL first-year players and were seven more than his nearest competitor. The Wheat Kings’ first round pick, fourth overall, in the 2013 WHL Bantam Draft, Patrick proved to be valuable to the overall success of the Wheat Kings’ offence as he recorded multiple-point outings in 16 games this season. Patrick is eligible for the 2017 NHL Draft.

RUNNER UP: Kailer Yamamoto – Spokane Chiefs


WHL Goaltender of the Year - Del Wilson Trophy
WINNER: Taran Kozun – Seattle Thunderbirds

Kozun enjoyed a productive season for the WHL’s second-best defensive club this year en route to a 33-19-4-4 record to go along with four shutouts. The 20-year-old finished second among WHL netminders with a 2.41 goals against average, tied for second with a .915 save percentage and fourth with 33 victories while helping the Thunderbirds finish in third place in the U.S. Division. The Nipawin, SK product had a consistent season that saw Kozun put together a string of five straight wins on two different occasions. Acquired from the Kamloops Blazers midway through the 2013-14 campaign, Kozun was named the Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week on February 9th, 2015.

RUNNER UP: Tristan Jarry – Edmonton Oil Kings


WHL Defenceman of the Year - Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy
WINNER: Shea Theodore – Seattle Thunderbirds

Aldergrove, BC native Shea Theodore enjoyed another consistent season for the Thunderbirds to help the Club finish third in the U.S. Division and qualify for the 2015 WHL Playoffs. The 19-year-old scored 48 points (13g-35a) in 43 games, good for third overall in Thunderbirds scoring and 14th amongst WHL defencemen. A member of Canada’s National Junior Team, Theodore was the Thunderbirds’ third round pick, 64th overall from the 2010 WHL Bantam Draft. He also earned a spot on the WHL Western Conference First All-Star Team this season. Theodore was selected by the Anaheim Ducks in the first round, 26th overall in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft.

RUNNER UP: Ivan Provorov – Brandon Wheat Kings


WHL Most Sportsmanlike Player of the Year - Brad Hornung Trophy
WINNER: Rourke Chartier – Kelowna Rockets

In his third WHL campaign, Rourke Chartier enjoyed a solid season for the Kelowna Rockets as he netted 48 goals and 82 points to finish tied for 14th in WHL scoring. The 19-year-old veteran from Saskatoon, SK made significant contributions to help the Rockets secure first place in the Western Conference. Playing key minutes in all situations, Chartier drew just 18 minutes in penalties on nine minor infractions. A humble player on the ice, Chartier has amassed just 34 penalty minutes in 188 career regular-season games. Chartier was the Rockets first-round pick, 15th overall, in the 2011 WHL Bantam Draft. Chartier was selected in the fifth-round, 149th overall, by the San Jose Sharks in the 2014 NHL Draft.

RUNNER UP: Peter Quenneville – Brandon Wheat Kings


WHL Scholastic Player of the Year – Daryl K. (Doc) Seaman Memorial Trophy
WINNER: Nick McBride – Prince Albert Raiders

18-year-old Prince Albert Raiders goaltender Nick McBride enjoyed a productive season on the ice, but McBride’s academic efforts still stand out. The Maple Ridge, BC product completed his first semester of Grade 12 with a remarkable 96% average which included a 99% in Pre-Calculus. He also attained a 95% average during his Grade 11 year. McBride was involved in the Prince Albert community as well, making appearances in the Reading With the Raiders program where he encouraged young children to read by promoting the importance of literacy. The Raiders’ selected McBride in the second-round of the 2012 WHL Bantam Draft with the 23rd overall pick. 

RUNNER UP: Joe Gatenby – Kelowna Rockets


WHL Humanitarian of the Year – Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy
WINNER: Taylor Vickerman – Tri-City Americans

In his third WHL season, Tri-City Americans forward Taylor Vickerman has been a staple in the community this year with the activities and projects he has been involved in. A native of Kennewick, WA, Vickerman created the ‘Americans’ Faceoff Against Bullying’ campaign. Along with teammates Beau McCue and Justin Hamonic, the three players went to a variety of elementary schools in the community to talk to children who have been affected by bullying and let them know how to deal with the effects of bullying. They spoke to kids about their own experience of being bullied, helping relate to the students and make them feel comfortable talking about the issue. Another cause Vickerman was involved in was Habitat for Humanity where he along with several team members helped in the construction of a house for a family. For Vickerman’s community-minded initiatives, he is a deserving recipient of the Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy.

RUNNER UP: Tyler Wong – Lethbridge Hurricanes


WHL Coach of the Year - Dunc McCallum Memorial Trophy
WINNER: John Paddock – Regina Pats

In his first year as head coach of the Regina Pats, John Paddock guided the Club to a 37-27-5-6 record for 85 points and a second-place finish in the WHL’s East Division. Under Paddock’s guidance, the Pats skated to the second-best road record in the WHL’s East Division with 19 victories. Paddocks’ Pats boasted one of the most balanced attacks across the League with eight players having reached the 20-goal mark.

RUNNER UP: Dan Lambert – Kelowna Rockets


WHL Executive of the Year - Lloyd Saunders Memorial Trophy
WINNER: Kelly McCrimmon – Brandon Wheat Kings

Now a three-time winner, Kelly McCrimmon enjoyed a successful campaign as both general manager and head coach of the Brandon Wheat Kings. McCrimmon’s Wheat Kings posted a 53-11-4-4 record for 114 points to finish first overall and claim the Scotty Munro Trophy as the League’s top team. Under McCrimmon’s guidance, the Wheat Kings improved their win total by 19 and their point total by 37 from the 2013-14 season while also reducing their goals-against by an incredible 50 goals. McCrimmon brings a tremendous knowledge of the business side of hockey to the Wheat Kings general manager position as he previously received the Executive of the Year award in the 2009-10 and 1994-95 seasons.

RUNNER UP: Bruce Hamilton – Kelowna Rockets


WHL Marketing/Business Award
WINNER: Kelowna Rockets


The Kelowna Rockets enjoyed an exceptional year with a significant number of business and marketing initiatives throughout the 2014-15 WHL regular season. The Rockets boosted their game day attendance with aggressive group and flex pack sales campaigns. The Rockets also introduced a new marketing campaign entitled “Welcome to Rocketland” that focused on making the community a part of the team. The Club worked with many organizations including the Heart & Stroke Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society and Kelowna Fire Department amongst others. The Rockets also worked with the Kelowna Minor Hockey Association for their 50-50 initiative and will donate over $250,000 to KMHA. The Kelowna Rockets Alumni Foundation has also helped raise in excess of $300,000 over the last 13 years for the Kelowna General Hospital.

RUNNER UP: Brandon Wheat Kings


WHL Scholastic Team of the Year
WINNER: Kamloops Blazers


In a year that boasted one of the strongest academic classes in WHL history, the Kamloops Blazers finished at the top of the class. This season, 12 players attended Valleyview Secondary School where many graduated with honours. As a group, the Blazers took 33 core courses with an average of 82% at Valleyview secondary. Kamloops’ players were also enrolled in 52 elective courses which were completed with an 85% average in total. The Blazers, with the help of Education Advisor Vic Bifano, not only ensured that all players performed to their full academic potential, but also that each player was in the best possible position to pursue post-secondary opportunities.


WHL Top Official – Allen Paradice Memorial Trophy
WINNER: Reagan Vetter


Reagan Vetter is in his 11th season as a referee in the Western Hockey League. The 37-year-old from Saskatoon, SK is regarded for his effective communication skills, composure and excellent judgement. Vetter’s impressive officiating resume includes being selected to work the last four consecutive WHL Championship Series and representing the WHL at the 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup. Vetter, married with two children, continues to officiate at a high level while balancing a career as a teacher.


WHL Regular Season Champion - Scotty Munro Memorial Trophy
WINNER: Brandon Wheat Kings

The Brandon Wheat Kings posted a 53-11-4-4 record for 114 points in 72 games this season to finish first overall in the WHL standings for the first time since the 1995-1996 season. During the 2014-15 regular season, the Wheat Kings led the league in home victories with 27 and had a stretch of 16 straight games in which they recorded at least a point from January 11, 2015 – February 16, 2015. The Wheat Kings finished 19 points ahead of their nearest competitor in the Eastern Conference standings, and finished with a 29-point lead for first place in the East Division. The Wheat Kings finished first overall in goal scoring with 340, and finished tied for seventh in fewest goals against, having allowed just 219. 


WHL Top Scorer - Bob Clarke Trophy
WINNER: Oliver Bjorkstrand – Portland Winterhawks

A 20-year-old from Herning, Denmark, Bjorkstrand scored 63 goals and 55 assists for 118 points in 58 games during the 2014-15 WHL regular season. His 63 goals tied him for the seventh-highest single-season total in team history, and he set a franchise record with a 12-game goal streak from January 30, 2015 – March 6, 2015. His 63 goals and 118 points led all WHL players, and he also led the League in plus-minus with a plus-60 rating. Bjorkstrand was named the WHL Player of the Month three times in January, February and March 2015. He recorded 36 multiple-point games, and 16 multiple-goal games, including five hat tricks. Drafted by Portland 26th overall in the 2012 CHL Import Draft, Bjorkstrand has played three seasons for the Portland Winterhawks, amassing 144 goals while adding 146 assists for 290 points in 193 career games.

WHL Plus-Minus Award

WINNER: Oliver Bjorkstrand – Portland Winterhawks (+60)