Local product named Vernon Vipers new captain

Sep 21, 2023 | 1:45 PM

A local product will wear the ‘C’ for the Vernon Vipers this season.

Connor Elliott of Coldstream has been named the team’s captain, the sixth local captain since 1997 joining Garth Gartner, Kori Davison, Chad Murray, Dave Robinson, and Jagger Williamson.

“It’s an honour to be named captain of this team,” Elliott, a defenceman who is entering his fifth year in the BC Hockey League, said. “We’ve got a great group of guys and I can’t wait to see what we’re going to accomplish this year.”

(Image credit: Vernon Vipers)

Joining Elliott in the leadership group is the longest serving Viper, Luke Pakulak.

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The Surrey product is going into his fourth season with the Snakes, and has played in 112 games.

“It’s an honour to be recognized as an assistant captain,” Pakulak remarked. “I’ll have a great opportunity to develop as a player and a leader this year.”

Anthony Cliché, Hank Cleaves and Julian Facchinelli are other members of leadership group.

“Our staff believes we have a very strong mix of personalities within the leadership group to handle the challenges that will come along during the season,” Jason McKee, Vipers head coach and GM, said.

“They will be a great extension of the coaching staff and will all play a major role on the team this year.”

The Vipers begin their regular season Friday night in Salmon Arm and then host the Cranbrook Bucks Saturday at 6 p.m. when former owner Duncan Wray will be honoured.

All of the Vipers games will be broadcast on 107.5 Beach Radio and Vernon Matters with Graham Turnbull, featuring new title sponsor Abby Dental.

by Pete McIntyre

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