On a remarkably busy trade deadline day, the Comox Valley Glacier Kings added three new players to the roster in preparation for hosting the Cyclone Taylor Cup.
In three separate transactions on Jan. 10, the Yetis acquired one power forward and two top-end defencemen.
Brandon Halls, a 19-year-old veteran BCHL defenceman, was acquired from the Alberni Valley Bulldogs. Halls is a left-handed, puck-moving blueliner whose speed, skill and experience will add to the leadership and build on the success the Glacier Kings already possess, providing offence from the back end.
D-man Patrick Croome was acquired in a trade with the VIJHL Peninsula Panthers in exchange for future considerations. The 19-year-old Calgary native’s role as captain of the Panthers will provide strong leadership on the bench and in the dressing room. Croome brings with him grit, strong physical play and a proven left-handed shot from the point.
Forward Michael Pond from Oliver, B.C. was signed after spending the beginning of the season with the KIJHL Penticton Lakers. After a brief hockey hiatus, Pond is eager to join the Glacier Kings’ lineup.
Pond is an impressively strong top-end centreman with a superior shot.
His ability to protect the puck at a high level and experience made him one of the top power forwards in the KIJHL last season. Pond will be an integral part of the Yetis’ playoff run.
Glacier Kings' head coach Bill Rotheisler is thrilled with the additions. “Today was an exciting day in the Glacier Kings' organization – establishing ourselves by adding three players that excel with their skill, work hard defensively and all possess superior character with leadership experience.
"These are three characteristics that are rare to find all together, let alone three examples of it.” Rotheisler added, “We got a lot better on the ice today as well as in the dressing room.”
With Mitch Ball’s call-up to the Junior A BCHL Cowichan Captials, Glacier Kings forward Andrew White replaced him at the VIJHL All-Star Game this past Sunday in Parksville.
White's third-period goal was the winner in a 4-1 North victory over the South. Earlier in the day, the South defeated the North 9-6 in the Prospects Game. John Gosbee of the Yetis scored for the North.
– Comox Valley Glacier Kings