Cole Manning Commits to Canmore

The Okanagan Hockey Academy is pleased to announce that Cole Manning has committed to the Canmore Eagles of the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL)

Last season played 46 games for the OHA major midget team and had 3 goals, 14 assists, 17 points and 73 penalty minutes.

“Cole is a physical defenseman that keeps the opposing forwards on guard with his punishing style of play. He competes hard every game and is always one of the first players on the ice every morning at practice. Canmore was looking for this type of player to complement the existing group of defense that they currently have. We wish Cole all the best at the junior level next season.” Alan Kerr, Director of Hockey Operations

Oakes Named Executive of the Year

Alberni Valley Bulldogs’ President and Governor Andy Oakes has been named the British Columbia Hockey League’s Executive of the Year, the league announced at its Annual General Meeting on Saturday, June 6th.

Oakes’s contributions to the BCHL over the past year include service as the Chair of the league’s Franchise and Strategic Planning Committee. He is also a member of the BCHL’s five-member League Executive.

Oakes, who had previously suited up in the BCHL as a player, returned to the league following the purchase of the Alberni Valley Bulldogs by the Okanagan Hockey Schools in 2007. Oakes is the President of Okanagan Hockey Schools and the Okanagan Hockey Academy.

“On behalf of the BCHL, our Board of Governors and 17 member teams, I’m very pleased to congratulate Andy on this well-earned honour,” BCHL Commissioner John Grisdale says. “Andy has been a true leader in all aspects of our operations and his commitment to the league is fully deserving of this recognition.”

“Andy has provided a great deal of expertise and guidance to our Franchise and Strategic Planning Committee and with our League Executive,” says BCHL Chairman Darcy Rota. “His focussed efforts over the past year have accounted for a great deal of the success the BCHL continues to enjoy.”

Sam Smith Commits to Bismarck

The Okanagan Hockey Academy (OHA) is pleased to announce that Sam Smith has committed to the Bismarck Bobcats of the North American Hockey League. Sam is from Cardiff, UK and is ineligible to play junior A in Canada due to residing outside of North America.

Sam played 46 games this season for the OHA major midget team and had 11 goals, 18 assists, 29 points and 16 penalty minutes.

“Sam is a power forward who at 6’2” and 210 pounds is a tough player for the opposition to contain. Sam made very good strides the second half of the season as his hard work and enthusiasm for the game allowed him to take his game to the next level. Sam is the 7th player off of our major midget team to be committed to so far to play junior A next season. We wish Sam all the best next season with the Bobcats.” Alan Kerr, Director of Hockey Operations

Primeau Signs With Eagles

Summerland Sting forward Josh Primeau has signed with the Surrey Eagles of the BCHL. The 6’4” 190 lb Primeau put up 27 points in 50 games for the Sting. Josh brings a good combination of size and skill to the Eagles organization.

“Josh is a very motivated hockey player. He has a great attitude and a tremendous work ethic. He will be a great addition to the Surrey Eagles club.” Blake Wesley, OHA Coach

For more information on this signing please visit: http://www.surreyeagles.ca/leagues/newsletter.cfm?clientID=645&leagueID=7065&page=35909 .

Bulldogs Sign Forward Josh Mitchell

Alberni Valley Bulldogs GM/Head Coach Nolan Graham announces the signing of (91) Forward Josh Mitchell.

Josh Mitchell, brother of current Bulldog Sam Mitchell, played last season with the Summerland Sting of the KIJHL. From Osoyoos, BC, Mitchell was the leading scorer for the Sting last season, and was 27th in KIJHL scoring last season. The 5’11” 170 lb forward scored 21 goals, 29 assists and 42 penalty minutes in 45 games.

“Josh is a great skating offensive forward, who sees the ice well, moves the puck well, and has the ability to put the puck in the net.” comments GM/Head Coach Nolan Graham. “Josh had many options for next season not only in our league but at the Major Junior level as well, I am very excited that Josh has decided to be a Bulldog next season.” said Graham. “Josh has the skill set and the ability to be a valuable offensive forward in the BCHL.” adds Graham.