Jagraj/Steve - SportsWave Broadcasting https://www.sportswave.ca "If You Don't Play Sport - At Least Be One" Tue, 26 Aug 2025 21:21:12 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://www.sportswave.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/cropped-SWLogo2018Transparent-1-32x32.png Jagraj/Steve - SportsWave Broadcasting https://www.sportswave.ca 32 32 Bandits’ Historic Season Ends In Semifinal Loss https://www.sportswave.ca/bandits-historic-season-ends-in-semifinal-loss/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=bandits-historic-season-ends-in-semifinal-loss Tue, 26 Aug 2025 21:18:35 +0000 http://54.213.246.179/?p=64464 Photo Credit Sportswave.ca

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Sad as it sounds teams have to not only play by the rules but also accept the calls made by the officials working the game but in today’s ever changing sporting world several calls are now going to the “command centre” for review.

Such was the case for the Vancouver Bandits in the heartbreaking loss to the Calgary Surge in the

This year saw the Bandits’ historic season ended in a heartbreaking semifinal loss to the Calgary Surge in the CEBL Western Conference semifinal finishing the regular season with a franchise-best 19-5 record and the league’s top seed who were a mere two points away from advancing to the Western Conference final. 

But to the frustration of Bandit supporters it was a series of overturned foul calls in “Target Time” that opened the door for Calgary’s Gilyard II to seal the game with three free throws, ending Vancouver’s season in front of a stunned home crowd. 

The loss denied the Bandits a chance to face the Winnipeg Sea Bears at Championship Weekend, despite entering the postseason as favourites to capture the franchise’s first league title. 

The matchup began with both teams leaning on their regular-season strengths, but momentum quickly swung back and forth. 

Vancouver’s trademark physicality showed in the opening quarter, though Calgary erased a seven-point deficit in the final minute of the frame. 

By the second quarter, the Bandits’ missed opportunities and defensive breakdowns gave the Surge room to build a double-digit lead. 

Fouls began to pile up on both sides, slowing the pace and forcing rotations to adjust. By halftime, 

Vancouver trailed by 10 after Zach Copeland closed the gap with a pair of free throws. 

As they had all season, the Bandits surged in the third quarter.

Copeland drained a three-pointer to spark a rally, followed by two free throws that cut into Calgary’s advantage. 

The LEC crowd responded with thunderous energy, pushing Vancouver back into contention. Each basket and foul call drew roars from the stands as the Bandits closed the gap heading into the final frame. 

The fourth quarter saw emotions peak, with fouls dominating the pace of play.

By Target Score Time, the game was tied and on a knife’s edge — Vancouver needing nine points to win, Calgary needing 10. 

The Bandits edged ahead and were just two points away from victory when the officiating took centre stage. 

Three consecutive foul calls in Vancouver’s favour were overturned after video review. Moments later, Calgary drew a foul against Kyle Mangas on a three-point attempt. 

Gilyard II sank all three free throws to clinch the game, silencing the Bandits’ hopes and leaving fans in disbelief.

Despite the disappointing finish, the Bandits capped their best season in franchise history. Just days after their elimination, 

Vancouver players and staff collected four awards at the 2025 CEBL Awards in Winnipeg. Forward Mitch Creek was named Most Valuable Player, after averaging 24.4 points per game to finish second in league scoring. 

Creek also ranked among the top 10 in multiple statistical categories, including three-point shooting (48.6 per cent), free throws made (110), and steals (30). 

His 488 total points were the second-highest in the league this season and the fourth-most ever in a single CEBL campaign. 

Centre Tyrese Samuel earned Canadian Player of the Year and Clutch Player of the Year, after becoming the only player in the league to average a double-double — 21.4 points and 10.8 rebounds per game — while leading the CEBL in field goal percentage at 65.9 per cent. 

Head coach Kyle Julius was honoured as Coach of the Year for the second consecutive season, guiding the Bandits to the league’s best record, a +250 point differential, and top marks in field goal percentage, assists, and overall scoring. It marked the second straight season 

Vancouver swept the league’s top three awards, highlighting both the roster’s depth and the leadership guiding the organization. 

The Bandits may not have lifted the championship trophy, but their 2025 campaign raised the bar for success in the CEBL. With Kyle Julius steering the bench, 

Vancouver remains a contender moving forward — even as their season ended in shock rather than celebration.

Wait till next season – it’ll be even more exciting than this one!!!!

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Surrey Eagles Prepare For 64th Season – New Coach/Fresh Roster https://www.sportswave.ca/surrey-eagles-prepare-for-64th-season-new-coach-fresh-roster/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=surrey-eagles-prepare-for-64th-season-new-coach-fresh-roster Mon, 25 Aug 2025 02:39:57 +0000 http://54.213.246.179/?p=64438 Photo Credit Brandon David/Surrey Eagles

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The Surrey Eagles will begin their 64th season this September, marking their 34th year in South Surrey as the British Columbia Hockey League franchise looks to bounce back from an early playoff exit. 

The Eagles enter 2025-26 with a new head coach and general manager after Scott Gomez stepped down at the end of last season. 

Gomez, who guided the team to the 2023-24 Fred Page Cup as an assistant coach before taking over behind the bench, has accepted a new position with the Chicago Steel of the United States Hockey League. 

Veteran BCHL coach Brian Passmore takes over the role in Surrey, bringing experience from previous stints with the Cowichan Valley Capitals and Merritt Centennials. 

Passmore inherits a roster in transition, with the Eagles aiming to build on their regular season success while addressing shortcomings exposed in the 2025 playoffs. 

The 2024-25 campaign was considered a transition year following the championship run two seasons ago. 

Surrey finished second in the Coastal Conference with a 31-18-5 record, trailing only the Chilliwack Chiefs. 

Despite the strong finish, the Eagles were eliminated in the first round of the BCHL Playoffs by the Alberni Valley Bulldogs. 

The series ended in five games, highlighted by a triple-overtime thriller in Game 4 that swung momentum in Alberni Valley’s favour. 

The Bulldogs sealed the upset at South Surrey Arena in Game 5, ending Surrey’s season earlier than expected. 

The loss underscored the need for roster adjustments, particularly with several veterans aging out of junior hockey eligibility. 

The Eagles have been active this summer, recruiting both local and international talent.

Among the new additions are forwards Ji Hyun Jang and Yoon Min Shin from Yonsei University in Korea, providing skill and speed up front. 

Closer to home, Surrey signed forwards Lucas Biros from the Vancouver NE Chiefs U18 and Evan Cook from Yale U18 Prep.

Both are expected to compete for roster spots and bring fresh energy to the forward group. 

A significant pickup is forward Lucas Di Giantommaso, who arrives from the Ontario Hockey League’s Sudbury Wolves. 

At 19, Di Giantommaso adds size and offensive upside, and is projected to play in Surrey’s top six. 

The Eagles open training camp Aug. 29 at South Surrey Arena, beginning preparations for the 2025-26 season. 

Camp will feature intersquad scrimmages that culminate in the inaugural Nick Johnston Cup on Sept. 1. 

The final scrimmage of camp is open to the public, with puck drop at 6:30 p.m. Admission is by donation, with a $5 minimum. 

Proceeds will go toward the Eagles’ Birds and Buddies community program, which connects players with local schools and youth initiatives. 

The Eagles will rely on a blend of experienced returnees and new talent to establish themselves as contenders in the Coastal Conference. 

With a new coach in place and a retooled roster, expectations are high as Surrey seeks to return to championship form. 

As the 2025-26 season approaches, the team faces the challenge of building consistency while integrating fresh players into key roles. 

For fans, the upcoming campaign marks not only a new chapter under Passmore’s leadership but also another opportunity for Surrey to establish itself among the BCHL’s elite.

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Bandits Unfinished Business! https://www.sportswave.ca/bandits-unfinished-business/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=bandits-unfinished-business Thu, 14 Aug 2025 06:21:09 +0000 http://54.213.246.179/?p=64346 Photo Credit Jagraj Lalli

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The Vancouver Bandits are set to return to the Langley Events Centre (LEC) this Saturday for their first home playoff game in two years, aiming to build on a franchise-best regular season and contend for the CEBL Championship. 

Last season, the Bandits fell short in the championship game against the Niagara River Lions, making this postseason opportunity especially meaningful. 

Vancouver secured the top seed in the Western Conference with a 19-5 record, clinching home-court advantage for the playoffs and achieving the best regular season finish in franchise history. 

The LEC was the site of 10 Bandits wins this summer, including seven sold-out games, tying the franchise record for most home wins in a single CEBL regular season. 

Saturday’s matchup will mark the first time in two years that the LEC hosts a playoff game, following Vancouver’s appearance in the 2023 Western Conference Final. 

This also represents the Bandits’ sixth consecutive postseason appearance, dating back to 2020.

The Bandits will face the winner of the Western Conference Play-In Game between the second-seeded Calgary Surge and third-seeded Edmonton Stingers. 

The winner of that semifinal will advance to 2025 Championship Weekend (CW25) at Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba. 

The four-team CW25 includes a Conference Finals doubleheader on Friday, August 22, followed by the CEBL Championship Final on Sunday, August 24. 

Vancouver closed the regular season with a record-setting 130–112 win over the Ottawa BlackJacks, setting a CEBL record for scoring under the Target Time format and recording the second-highest scoring game in league history. 

The Bandits’ backcourt and forward rotation performed at a high level, demonstrating their ability to maintain composure and capitalize during critical stretches of the game. 

Forward Tyrese Samuel earned the CEBL Player of the Week after posting consecutive dominant performances, scoring 32 points with 18 rebounds on August 8 and 33 points with 17 rebounds on August 10. 

Samuel’s rookie campaign stood out as he became the only player in the league to average more than 20 points and 10 rebounds per game, while also tying for the league lead with six Target Score Winners and leading the CEBL in field goal percentage at 65.9 percent.

Mitch Creek, the Bandits’ veteran leader, also finished the regular season strong, averaging 24.4 points per game to rank second in the league. 

He added 488 points over the course of the season, marking the second-highest total in the CEBL in 2025 and the fourth-highest single-season total in franchise history. 

Creek also ranked among the league’s top 10 in three-point percentage, field goal percentage, free throws made, minutes played, and steals, cementing his status as one of the league’s top performers. 

The 2025 CEBL Awards, taking place on August 21 at The Metropolitan Entertainment Centre in Winnipeg, will honor individual and team achievements from the season, including Most Valuable Player, Canadian Player of the Year, Sixth Man, Defensive Player, Developmental Player, Coach of the Year, Clutch Player, and the Fox 40 Officiating Recognition Award. Award recipients will receive custom rings, trophies, and gifts from league partners. 

With home-court advantage and a talented roster featuring proven scorers and defensive contributors, the Bandits are well-positioned to make a deep playoff run. 

Saturday’s game marks the beginning of their push to secure the franchise’s first CEBL Championship and capitalize on one of the most successful seasons in team history.

It’s been an honour to broadcast Vancouver Bandits basketball in Punjabi for most of the home games this season. 

I can’t wait to do it one last time at the LEC on Saturday. Join myself and Jarman Chahal on 91.5 Connect FM for the call.

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Bandits Reclaim Top Spot With Statement Win Over BlackJacks https://www.sportswave.ca/bandits-reclaim-top-spot-with-statement-win-over-blackjacks/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=bandits-reclaim-top-spot-with-statement-win-over-blackjacks Sat, 07 Jun 2025 13:50:00 +0000 http://54.213.246.179/?p=64122 Bandits pull away late to top BlackJacks 95–81, reclaim top spot in the West By: Jagraj Lalli The Vancouver Bandits used a dominant fourth quarter and standout performances from key contributors to secure a 95–81 win over the Ottawa BlackJacks at Langley Events Centre. With the victory, Vancouver improved to 6–1 on the season and […]

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Bandits pull away late to top BlackJacks 95–81, reclaim top spot in the West By: Jagraj Lalli The Vancouver Bandits used a dominant fourth quarter and standout performances from key contributors to secure a 95–81 win over the Ottawa BlackJacks at Langley Events Centre.

With the victory, Vancouver improved to 6–1 on the season and returned to the top of the Canadian Elite Basketball League’s Western Conference.

Ottawa dropped to 2–3 and remains in the middle of a challenging Western road trip. 

The Bandits outscored the BlackJacks 30–17 in the final frame, capitalizing on Target Score Time and a renewed defensive energy that proved too much for Ottawa to handle down the stretch. 

Bandits captain Mitch Creek led all scorers with 21 points and added nine rebounds in a high-effort, high-impact performance. Postgame, 

Creek highlighted the team’s preparation for close contests and execution during Target Score Time. 

“We’re not messing around or taking it lightly — we’re out there working hard to make sure that when we get to target time, we stay composed, run our sets properly and maintain the right spacing,” Creek said. “Target time is all about getting stops on defence and then capitalizing on offence… Tonight, we had that opportunity and we got two great looks.” 

Tyrese Samuel and Curtis Hollis were key closers, combining for nine points in Target Score Time, including the bucket that sealed the win. 

Hollis has embraced his role coming off the bench and has now delivered back-to-back games with 17 or more points. “He’s a gamer, a hooper, a true baller — all of that,” said Bandits head coach Kyle Julius. “Curtis has high-level instincts and just knows how to make plays. Right now, he’s embraced his role coming off the bench, and he’s been producing in a big way.” The BlackJacks hung with the Bandits for much of the game.

After falling behind 21–12 early, Ottawa used strong bench production to stay competitive. The BlackJacks’ second unit contributed 42 points, including 12 from Justin Jackson, who was perfect from three-point range. 

His hot shooting in the third quarter closed the gap to just one point, with the Bandits clinging to a 65–64 lead entering the final 10 minutes. 

Christian Rohlehr, a key presence off the bench, added 11 points and nine rebounds in a gritty performance. “I’m just doing my job,” said Rohlehr. “They brought me here to protect the rim, rebound and finish around the basket so I’ve just got to keep working at it and see where it goes from here.” 

Despite the loss, Ottawa head coach David DeAveiro said he was proud of his team’s effort on the road and praised the bench for playing its role well. 

“We competed hard. They just executed better than we did down the stretch,” said DeAveiro. “We had some key defensive breakdowns — every time we cut the lead to three or four, they’d respond with a run. But overall, I’m proud of how our guys battled.”

Kyle Mangas didn’t light up the stat sheet for Vancouver, but his steady presence made an impact. 

The veteran guard tallied seven rebounds, two steals and a block while helping to calm the pace. “His steadiness made a big difference,” said Julius. “We needed composure, and Kyle brought that.” 

The Bandits now shift their focus to the Saskatchewan Rattlers (2–4), who they’ll face on Sunday. 

Ottawa continues its road trip with a visit to the Calgary Surge (5–2), a key matchup in the standings. 

With the CEBL regular season nearing its halfway point, both teams will look to fine-tune their rotations and stay in the playoff hunt.

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Regina Pats Franchise Moves At 2025 WHL Draft https://www.sportswave.ca/regina-pats-franchise-moves-at-2025-whl-draft/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=regina-pats-franchise-moves-at-2025-whl-draft Fri, 09 May 2025 15:59:00 +0000 http://54.213.246.179/?p=63977 Photo Credit Regina Pats

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The Regina Pats reshaped the trajectory of their franchise on Wednesday night, landing two of the biggest young talents in Canadian junior hockey during the first round of the 2025 WHL Draft.

With the first overall pick, the Pats selected homegrown forward Maddox Schultz, marking their first No. 1 selection since 2020 — when they drafted none other than Connor Bedard. 

But Regina wasn’t done. 

The team pulled off a blockbuster trade to acquire the third overall pick and used it to land exceptional-status player Liam Pue from Langley Hockey Academy’s 18U squad in the Junior Hockey Prospects League (JPHL).

It was a night that could define the next era of Pats hockey.

Schultz, who turned 15 in March, was considered a strong candidate to apply for exceptional-player status, which would have allowed him to play a full WHL season next year. Instead, 

Schultz and his family opted to enter under the Western Canadian Development Model, which permits him to play up to 34 regular season WHL games next season while continuing minor hockey development.

Schultz dominated this year with the Regina Pat Canadians in the Saskatchewan Male U18 AAA Hockey League, where he was named league MVP.

He led the team to a Telus Cup national championship and put up jaw-dropping numbers — 20 points (nine goals, 11 assists) in seven games, six points clear of any other player at the national tournament. 

Sportswave Broadcasting covered the Telus Cup final live from the Chilliwack Coliseum, where Schultz scored the golden goal that clinched the championship, which as impressed as it was we were the only media that was in the press box.

If Schultz’s draft position wasn’t exciting enough, the Pats lit up the draft floor by moving up to pick Liam Pue at No. 3 overall.

Pue, a rare exceptional-status forward, has been on the junior hockey radar for years.

As a 13-year-old, he torched the JPHL 15U level with 64 goals and 104 points in 31 games, and also contributed 14 goals and 22 points in the 17U division. 

Photo Credit JPHL

This past season, despite playing as a 14-year-old for most of the year, Pue recorded 30 goals and 80 points in 29 games at the 18U level.

I’ve personally called Pue’s games for the last three years and still count his overtime series-winning goal in 2024, which sent Langley to the B.C. JPHL Final, as one of the most thrilling calls I’ve had as a broadcaster. 

Behind his incredible talent, Pue is supported by his parents, Jason and Kristin, who deserve recognition for the commitment and support they’ve given to his development.

Pats assistant GM Dale Derkatch expressed the excitement around adding two elite players in one night, calling it a rare opportunity.

“It’s not every day you get a chance to get two exceptional-status players,” Derkatch said. “I was hearing talk of them playing on two different lines, but how about them playing together — wouldn’t that be nice?”

Derkatch praised Pue’s skating and offensive tools.

“He’s a powerful skater, and not only that, he’s got a shot that’s something to die for — he can really rip it,” he said. “With him and Maddox together, they’ll be two guys who play the game the right way and play hard.”

Alan Miller Pats GM Alan emphasized that the team will work closely with the Schultz and Pue families to balance the players’ development.

Miller mentioned “We’re going to want to work with them and their families in terms of making sure we’re doing the right things in terms of their development.”

He continued “There’s a balance to how much time they’re playing, when they’re practising with us, and when they’re playing for the under-18 teams.”

If Schultz and Pue crack the lineup as 15-year-olds, they will become full-time WHLers in 2026-27 when they turn 16.

Fans are already imagining the dynamic duo on the same line, though the two centremen may need to decide who shifts over to wing.

On behalf of Sportswave Broadcasting, congratulations go out to Maddox, Liam, and their families. The Regina Pats’ future looks bright — and hockey fans across the Prairies will be watching closely.

Note From the peanut gallery:

If you think watching Bedard was exciting, wait till you catch these two in action both on the same  line as well as the PP.

Excitement plus!!!!!!!!!

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Warriors Eye Bigger Breakthrough Next Season https://www.sportswave.ca/warriors-eye-bigger-breakthrough-next-season/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=warriors-eye-bigger-breakthrough-next-season Tue, 06 May 2025 17:54:00 +0000 http://54.213.246.179/?p=63928 Photo Credit Jagraj Lalli/Sportswave

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The Vancouver Warriors’ dream season came to an end on Sunday night at Rogers Arena, where they fell 11-9 to the Buffalo Bandits in Game 2 of their National Lacrosse League semifinal series.

Despite a resilient four-goal third quarter that lifted them to an 8-6 lead, the Warriors couldn’t hold off the two-time defending champions.

Buffalo surged back with five of the game’s final six goals to sweep the best-of-three series and secure its place in the NLL Finals.

The loss, however, doesn’t overshadow the Warriors’ historic campaign. Vancouver reached the playoffs for the first time in franchise history and advanced to the semifinals, marking a significant step forward for the team and its fan base.

Adam Charalambides powered the Warriors’ offence with a seven-point performance (three goals, four assists), while Keegan Bal and Marcus Klarich each chipped in two goals and three assists. Kevin Crowley and Riley Loewen each added a goal to round out the scoring.

Buffalo opened the night with a quick 2-0 lead, but Vancouver answered back, tying the game 2-2 just before the first-quarter buzzer. 

Photo Credit NLL

The Bandits carried a narrow 5-4 advantage into halftime, but Vancouver roared out of the break, netting four goals in the third quarter to flip the script and take control.

It was short-lived. From the fourth quarter onward, Buffalo showcased its championship pedigree, storming back to silence the Rogers Arena crowd and book its trip to another title series.

Both teams entered Sunday’s matchup on short rest after Game 1 in Buffalo, which saw the Bandits win at home. 

The series then shifted across the continent, with both clubs travelling 2,600 miles (4,184 kilometres) west to Vancouver.

For Warriors captain Brett Mydske, the defeat stung — but the pride in the team’s growth was undeniable. Mydske said the group left everything on the floor and truly believed it could make a deep run.

In a post game scrum he continued  “It’s hard to feel happy right now because there’s so much belief in this room and this team wasn’t just happy to make the playoffs — we believed we had a team that could go all the way. Credit to Buffalo; they’re two-time defending champions for a reason. But when you look at that game, every single guy gave it their all. A couple of days from now, we’ll be able to look back and feel proud of the performance.”

Mydske reflected on the team’s journey over the past two years and believes Vancouver is poised to remain a contender.

“You’ve got to learn how to lose before you can win,” he said. “We’ve made great progress. Last year we were playing playoff games, and this year we were 5-7 at one point and then rattled off seven straight wins. It’s been great to play in those high-pressure games. And trust me — we’ll be back in this situation. We’re going to contend for a cup.”

Head coach Curt Malawsky also praised the team’s resilience, noting the character of the players was what impressed him most.

“Resiliency — this is a really resilient group,” Malawsky said. “We were 5-7 at one point, but we just kept battling. Last year, we also went on a run near the end. What stands out to me is that we’ve got quality individuals in that dressing room. They truly care about the logo on the front of the jersey and about each other.”

Malawsky will stay involved with lacrosse this summer as an assistant coach with the Langley Thunder Jr. A program alongside head coach Matt Beers. 

Beers, who recently completed his 13th NLL season as an assistant captain with the Warriors, will team up with Malawsky to help develop the next generation of players.

Malawsky credited local programs for fostering talent in all areas of British Columbia.

“The British Columbia Lacrosse Association does a great job developing elite athletes and lacrosse players,” he said. “It’s special to watch these guys come up through grassroots minor lacrosse, work their way up, and then get the chance to play at the highest level in front of their family and friends in their hometown. That’s pretty cool to see.”

As the Warriors enter the offseason, they do so with momentum and optimism. With a foundation of talent, a proven ability to battle through adversity, and the experience of competing on the NLL’s biggest stage, 

Vancouver looks poised to reach even greater heights in the 2025-26 season.

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Liam Pue Granted Exceptional Status https://www.sportswave.ca/liam-pue-granted-exceptional-status/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=liam-pue-granted-exceptional-status Thu, 29 Aug 2024 03:41:15 +0000 http://54.213.246.179/?p=62954 Photo Credit JPHL The Junior Prospects Hockey League granted exceptional status to Langley’s Liam Pue allowing Pue to compete at the 18U level with Langley Hockey Association. Last season, he notched an impressive 104 points in 31 games playing against U17 players in his own age group and also earned 22 points in 14 games.  […]

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Photo Credit JPHL

The Junior Prospects Hockey League granted exceptional status to Langley’s Liam Pue allowing Pue to compete at the 18U level with Langley Hockey Association.

Last season, he notched an impressive 104 points in 31 games playing against U17 players in his own age group and also earned 22 points in 14 games. 

Pue’s contributions were not limited to regular-season play; he also made headlines with an electrifying overtime series winner in Abbotsford. 

His remarkable play adding to his team’s productivity he almost single-handedly helped advance his squad to the second round of playoffs, attracting several WHL scouts in the stands

The decision to grant Pue exceptional status is particularly noteworthy as he is poised to be the first major prospect to play his draft year in the JPHL.

This distinction places him in a unique position as he prepares for the 2025 WHL draft, where he is anticipated to be a top pick. 

The JPHL’s move reflects Pue’s outstanding capabilities and the high regard in which he is held within the hockey community.

Richard Nault, JPHL Commissioner, commented on the decision, emphasizing Pue’s readiness for this advanced level of competition. 

Nault mentioned “Liam’s physical and mental attributes, combined with his hockey IQ, make him well-prepared to take on the challenges of competing at this advanced level.

Additionally, he has the full support of a strong and grounded family foundation, as well as a coaching staff and organization familiar with his ability to rise to the occasion.”

 Nault’s statement underscores the confidence the JPHL has in Pue’s abilities and the support system that has contributed to his development.

For those who have followed Pue’s career closely, particularly his time in the JPHL as an underage player, this announcement is a natural progression. 

Pue has consistently demonstrated exceptional skill, hockey sense, and maturity on the ice, marking him as one of the elite junior hockey prospects in the country. 

His performance has not only impressed coaches and scouts but has also established him as a standout player with a bright future ahead.

Langley HA, the team with which Pue will compete at the 18U level, is equally enthusiastic about the addition of this top prospect. 

Curtis Fraser, longtime coach and Langley HA Director of Player Personnel, shared his thoughts on Pue’s progression and the impact he is expected to make. “Liam is an extraordinary talent who has consistently demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest levels. 

His work ethic, passion for the game, and maturity are beyond his years, and we have no doubt that he will thrive in this new challenge. 

It’s been a privilege to watch his development over the years, and we are confident that Liam’s transition to 18U will be seamless. 

His character, both on and off the ice, makes him a leader, and we’re excited to see what he will achieve with our program this season.”

Fraser’s comments highlight Pue’s exceptional qualities and the high expectations placed on him as he steps into this new role. 

His transition to the 18U level is anticipated to be smooth, given his proven track record and the support from his coaching staff and organization. 

Pue’s leadership and character, combined with his on-ice skills, position him as a key player for Langley HA and a significant asset for the team’s future success.

Here’s hoping that he stays focused on “his game” never losing focus on his ability and what lies ahead in his future.

Sportswave wishes him all the best in his career!!!!

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Adanacs Clinch Fourth Minto Cup https://www.sportswave.ca/adanacs-clinch-fourth-minto-cup/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=adanacs-clinch-fourth-minto-cup Sat, 24 Aug 2024 21:13:00 +0000 http://54.213.246.179/?p=62904 Photo Credit J. Lalli/Sportswave The Coquitlam Adanacs secured their fourth Minto Cup championship on Friday night, defeating the Orangeville Northmen 9-6 in front of an energized home crowd at Poirier Sport and Leisure Complex.  This victory secures Adanac history in Canadian Junior A lacrosse, managing to add to their previous titles won in 2010, 2016, […]

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Photo Credit J. Lalli/Sportswave

The Coquitlam Adanacs secured their fourth Minto Cup championship on Friday night, defeating the Orangeville Northmen 9-6 in front of an energized home crowd at Poirier Sport and Leisure Complex. 

This victory secures Adanac history in Canadian Junior A lacrosse, managing to add to their previous titles won in 2010, 2016, and 2018. 

Cody Malawsky was the hero for the Adanacs, delivering a standout performance when his team needed it most. Malawsky scored four goals and added an assist, leading the offensive charge for Coquitlam and finishing the night with five points. 

His ability to find the back of the net at crucial moments made a significant difference in the outcome of the game. 

Malawsky’s efforts were bolstered by Noah Manning, who also had a five-point night with two goals and three assists. 

Manning’s playmaking and scoring touch were instrumental in the Adanacs’ victory, providing a consistent threat throughout the game. Nathan Chalmers also contributed with two goals, adding to the Adanacs’ offensive firepower.

In goal, Jack Kask was a wall for the Adanacs, stopping 50 of 56 shots he faced. His outstanding performance between the pipes earned him the finals MVP honours, a recognition well-deserved given his crucial role in Coquitlam’s success. Kask’s calm presence and ability to make key saves under pressure were vital in securing the win for his team.

Reflecting on the victory, Adanacs defenseman Ty Banks expressed his elation at winning the championship on home soil. 

“It’s a dream come true,” Banks said. “Having the opportunity to do it on my home floor—I couldn’t ask for anything more. It’s truly a blessing.” Banks also spoke about the nerves that came with competing in the Minto Cup, particularly during the round-robin stage.”

He continued “Honestly, coming into the Minto Cup, there were a lot of nerves, especially during the round robin. I feel like I let it get the best of me, but with the help of my coaches and teammates, I was able to push that aside and focus on the process. For the last two games, I felt pretty good—levelheaded and ready to get it done. And luckily, we did.” 

His words highlight the mental challenges of competing at such a high level and the importance of support from teammates and coaches. 

On the other side, Liam Matthews was the standout player for the Northmen throughout the tournament, and he continued his strong play in the final, netting a hat trick. 

Matthews was consistently dangerous, finding ways to break through the Adanacs’ defence and score crucial goals. 

His leadership on the floor was evident, as he tried to inspire a comeback for his team. 

Dylan Sanderson also had a solid performance, contributing a goal and two assists, while goaltender Connor O’Toole made 40 saves on 49 shots, doing his best to keep Orangeville in the game.

The match was tightly contested in the early stages, with both teams battling hard for every inch of the floor. 

Matthews opened the scoring for Orangeville, finding the net 7:16 into the game, however, Chalmers quickly responded for the Adanacs, tying the game just 22 seconds later. 

The first period remained close, with Manning giving Coquitlam the lead with 2:59 left on the clock, but Matthews struck back with 1:45 remaining to tie it 2-2 heading into the first intermission.

In the second period, Coquitlam began to assert control. Malawsky put the Adanacs ahead again at 8:51, but Matthews quickly equalized with a goal two minutes later, making it a 3-3 game. 

The teams continued to trade goals, with Malawsky scoring his second of the night at 12:43 to restore Coquitlam’s lead. Sanderson replied for the Northmen just 37 seconds later, tying the game once more at 4-4. 

The Adanacs finished the period strongly, with Chalmers scoring at 16:33 and David Charney adding another goal with 50 seconds left in the period, giving Coquitlam a 6-4 lead heading into the third.

The Adanacs carried their momentum into the final period, opening with a pair of quick goals. Malawsky completed his hat trick 8:05 into the third period, and Manning added another just 18 seconds later, extending Coquitlam’s lead to 8-4. 

The Northmen tried to mount a comeback, with Trey Deere scoring at 11:34 to bring Orangeville within three goals.

Malawsky made short work of that and quickly responded grabbing his fourth goal of the night at 12:37 sealing the Championship for Coquitlam. 

Despite a late goal from Bowie Horsman with 2:36 left on the clock, the Adanacs held firm to secure a 9-6 win.

For the Adanacs, Malawsky’s four goals and an assist led the way, with Manning adding two goals and three assists. 

Charney chipped in with a goal and two assists, while Chalmers contributed two goals. 

On the Orangeville side, Matthews’ hat trick was complemented by Sanderson’s goal and two assists, while Horsman and Deere also found the back of the net. 

The victory marks a triumphant end to the Adanacs’ season, as they celebrate another Minto Cup title with their passionate fans. 

The team’s ability to perform under pressure and deliver in crucial moments was key to their success, and they will undoubtedly look to build on this momentum in future seasons. 

With their fourth Minto Cup in the books, the Coquitlam Adanacs have once again proven themselves as one of the premier teams in Canadian Junior A lacrosse.

Top Scorers

Coquitlam Adanacs

Cody Malawsky, 4g 1a; Noah Manning, 2g 3a;  David Charney, 1g 2a

Orangeville Northmen

Liam Matthews, 3g, Dylan Sanderson, 1g 2a’ Bowie Horsman, 1g 1a

Joey Spallina, 2a’ Owen Rahn, 2a

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