Monday, November 26, 2012

Veteran forward Mistal takes over 'Backs captaincy

Press Release

The Salmon Arm SilverBacks are proud to announce Brandon Mistal has been named the 13th captain in franchise history. The 20 year old forward will dawn the 'C' for the remainder of the season as he caps off a remarkable BCHL career.
 
Mistal, a native of Kamloops, BC takes over for Bennett Hambrook, who was traded to the Trail Smoke Eaters on Tuesday.
 
Brandon is in his fourth BCHL season and is on pace to play more than 200 games in his Junior A career. Mistal played 87 games with the 'Backs before being traded to the Cowichan Valley Capitals in the summer of 2010-2011. He re-joined the SilverBacks this past off-season as part of a deal for former captain Brett Knowles.
 
Shuswap hockey fans saw him put up 21 points in his first stint as a SilverBack, then watched from afar as he found his offensive stride tallying 32 points with the Capitals last season. With 16 points this season and one of the veteran leaders in the 'Backs dressing room; GM Troy Mick says this was an easy choice to make.
 
"Brandon is a fierce competitor and does such a great job leading by example that there was no question about this decision for the Coaches or players. We're very proud to have Brandon lead our team and excited to see the extra pep he gets in his step with a letter on his chest."
 
More good news for SilverBack fans, 18-year-old defenseman and Salmon Arm native Shane Hanna has been named as an assistant captain.
 
Hanna will wear an 'A' on his jersey, along with Brendan and Jeff Kennedy. Troy Mick says Hanna is part of the organizations young leadership group.
 
 "We have three 18 year old assistants who are all capable leaders in different capacities. We see how other players react to the effort put forth by Shane and see him as a great pick for the future of the organization.


(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

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