Thursday, March 24, 2011

OAKES TO SERVE AS SJHL SCOUT FOR WJAC

Press Release

The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League is proud to announce Rick Oakes as the league’s scouting representative for the World Junior “A” challenge. Under this role, Oakes will work with NHL Central Scouting regional director Graham Tuer to identify players that will represent the league at the World Junior “A” challenge in future years.

Oakes, a Moose Jaw native, has been involved with the Estevan Bruins in a variety of roles over the past decade. He has also served as a scout for the Prince Albert Raiders of the WHL and is heavily involved with minor hockey throughout Saskatchewan.

The World Junior “A” challenge is one of the newest events on the hockey calendar. It was established by Hockey Canada in 2006 to showcase the talent in Canada’s 10 Junior “A’ leagues. In its five year existence, Canada West has won gold twice and silver twice.

SJHL players that have represented Canada West in the past include 2010 St. Louis Blues 1st round draft pick Jaden Schwartz, Clarke Breitkreuz of the Yorkton Terriers and Andrew Bodnarchuk of the Humboldt Broncos. In all, the SJHL has been represented by 18 players, coaches and management over the short history of the event.

SJHL president Laury Ryan is pleased to have Oakes on board and believes this will be a win-win situation for everyone involved.

“We are pleased to have Rick on board,” Ryan states. “His past record indicates an eye for talent and I am sure his work will result in many deserving SJHL players the opportunity to wear the maple leaf and represent Canada in this international competition.

Oakes will speak with SJHL organizations and with their help, he will base a roster of players that will be invited to the 2011 Canada West camp. Dates for that camp and the 2011 World Junior “A” Challenge have not been announced yet.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

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