(Image credit: Vernon Vipers/Facebook)

By Pete McIntyre

Trade deadline

WHL players add size, experience to Vipers den

Jan 11, 2022 | 2:30 PM

The Vernon Vipers have been active prior to the BCHL’s trade deadline on Jan. 10, adding a couple of former WHL players to their lineup.

Forward Copeland Fricker (03) comes to Vernon from the WHL. The Midland, Texas product had 7 points in 25 games with the Spokane Chiefs this season.

Copeland is listed 5’9, 162 lbs and shoots right.

“Copeland is a well rounded player and has shown a lot of offense before his junior career started,” said Vipers Head Coach and GM of the Vipers Jason McKee. “We are hoping to see some of those scoring attributes here in Vernon.”

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Another new Viper, defenceman Cade McNelly (01) is also from the WHL. The Westlock, Alberta product has 111 games of major junior experience. He had two goals and 3 assists in 20 games with the Seattle Thunderbirds in their COVID shortened pod season.

“Cade brings an element of toughness and physicality to our back end,” McKee told the Vipers website. “We expect Cade to come in and contribute to those areas right away while providing leadership to our group with his experience at the junior level.”

“I’m looking forward to getting started here in Vernon and doing everything I can do to be a good teammate and help the team be successful every night,” said McNelly, who is listed at 6’3, 210 lbs and is a left handed shot.

Defenceman Anthony Cliche (03) joins the Vipers from the USHL.

“Anthony is a big spatial defenceman that will bring depth to our group on the backend,” commented McKee. “We look forward to what he will be able to provide our team in regards to experience, size and consistency.”

The Vallee-Jonction, Quebec product had 30 points with Mount St. Charles Acad 16U AAA. This season he’s suited up for 19 games with the Muskegon Lumberjacks of the USHL.

“I’m very excited to get things started and I’m grateful to get this opportunity,” remarked Cliche. “I’m looking forward to get to know my new teammates and the city of Vernon!”

Cliche is listed at 6’4, 215 lbs and is a right handed shot.

Leaving the Vipers are Adam Bourgeois and Kjell Kjemhus.