Luke Pakulak in action (Photo credit: Vernon Vipers)

By Pete McIntyre

Junior hockey

Vernon Vipers veteran gets recognition from BCHL

Oct 18, 2023 | 12:00 PM

After being named the first star in back-to-back games last week, Vernon Vipers forward Luke Pakulak is getting his just rewards.

The 6’5, 215-pound winger from Surrey was named the BC Hockey League’s second star of the week after collecting two goals and three assists, and being chosen as the first star in Viper wins over Salmon Arm and Cranbrook.

Luke Pakulak (Image credit: Vernon Vipers)

“After going the first five games of the season without a point, the fourth-year Viper got back on track starting Friday night at home against he Salmon Arm Silverbacks,” a BCHL news release stated. “Pakulak’s goal early in the second period tied the game 1-1 and he would eventually score again late in the third, this time into an empty net, but the goal proved to be the game-winner after the Silverbacks scored in the final seconds.”

The following night on the road against the Cranbrook Bucks, Pakulak picked up three assists in a 6-3 win.

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Victoria Grizzlies goalie Oliver Auyeung-Ashton was named the league’s first star of the week after winning both his starts, stopping 61 of the 63 shots he faced to end up with a .968 save percentage and a 1.00 goals-against average.

The Vipers take a six-game win streak into their road game in West Kelowna against the Warriors tonight (Oct. 18).

Listen for Abby Dental Vernon Vipers hockey on 107.5 Beach Radio with Graham Turnbull starting with the pre-game show at 6:45.