Saturday, June 1, 2013

Vees Announce Captains

Press Release 

PENTICTON, BC–The Penticton Vees Jr. ‘A’ Hockey Club is pleased to announce Brad McClure (93) as Captain and Travis Blanleil as an Assistant Captain for the upcoming 2013-2014 season.

The Vees newest Captain says this was the next step in his five-year junior career,

“I’m really excited to be given the captaincy, as this was an opportunity I’ve been waiting for since the season ended.  It’s humbling and a privilege, as this organization has a rich history and has had so many great leaders in the past; it’s an honour to join their company.”

The Stratford, Ontario product had a solid rookie campaign, leading the Vees in goal scoring (27) and finished with 46 points in 53 games. McClure elevated his play in the post-season, where led the team with seven goals and finished second in points (12), helping lead the Vees to their second consecutive Fred Page Cup Final. Prior to joining the Vees, McClure spent three seasons with the Stratford Cullitons of the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League; McClure is committed to Ferris State in 2014.

Vees Head Coach and General Manager Fred Harbinson says anointing McClure as Captain wasn’t a difficult decision,

“Brad is more than a talented hockey player, as he exemplifies all the characteristics we as an organization want in a captain. Brad possesses a strong worth ethic and is a fiery competitor that has a natural leadership quality that was evident throughout last season.”

McClure says being a Captain means making those around him better,

“I want to be the guy who leads by example on and off the ice, whether it’s during a game or in practice, in the dressing room, in the gym or in the community. I want to establish a standard that reflects upon the quality of this program.”

Travis Blanleil also says he’s proud to be part of the lineage of great leaders within the organization,

“It’s an honour to be looked upon as a leader by your coaches, especially with the Vees, as there have been so many great players before me that have worn a letter. I want to be judged by my play on the ice but if something needs to be said, I won’t be afraid to pipe up.”

Blanleil has plenty of experience underneath his belt. The 19 year-old is entering his second season with the Vees and fourth in the BCHL. Last season, Blanleil collected eight goals and 19 points in the regular season on the Vees infamous “trench line.” His determined worked ethic and ability to shut down the oppositions’ top players on the checking line earned him the team’s Playoff MVP award. Blanleil is set to join the Vermont Catamounts in the fall of 2014.

The Vees will announce the remainder of their leadership group at the conclusion of the teams Main Camp in August.


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

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