The Alberta Junior Hockey League today announced the 2017-2018 Viterra All-League and All-Rookie teams as selected by the General Managers and Coaches of the AJHL. No surprise to see two Storm players names on the list. 2017/18 AJHL Rookie of the year Zachary Okabe was unanimously selected to the AJHL Viterra North Division All-Rookie Team and graduating forward Justin Bernier was selected to the AJHL Viterra North Division All-League team.
Okabe was impressive to say the least in his rookie campaign finishing with 22goals and 35assists in 57games regular season games while adding another 5pts in 9 playoff appearances.
Coach Keillor says Zachary has a rare skill set that separates him from the pack “one of my early mentors was Pat Elynuik in Calgary and he use to always emphasize explosive wrists and the ability to snap the puck using range. Zach has some of the most explosive wrists I have ever seen, his ability to move the puck 180 degrees in the blink of an eye has made for some jaw dropping goals this season. We are extremely proud of Zach’s accomplishments this season and cant wait to see what another summer of development will do”
Justin Bernier fresh off being named a finalist for AJHL MVP also recorded a stellar campaign for the Storm with a team leading 78pts in 59 regular season games before adding another 8pts in 9 playoff appearances.
Coach Keillor says its not a surprise Justin is being recognized in this way. “Bernier was our MVP and its no coincidence the league seen that as well. He made things happen and was quietly dangerous. Sometimes you think he’s not involved in the game then you look at the score sheet and he has 4 assists. We relied on him heavily this season to drive the offensive ship and I’m glad he’s being recognized for his efforts”
The Grande Prairie Storm would like to congratulate both Justin and Zachary on being named to the 2017-2018 Viterra All-League and All-Rookie teams respectively.
There is no rest for the coaching staff as the Storm host 80 hopefuls at this weekend’s spring camp held at Revolution Place. Fans are encouraged to come check out the game action Saturaday and Sunday. Schedules can be found on the storm website!