Storm Sign a Pair of 2008 La Crete Players

The Grande Prairie Storm are proud to announce the signing of 2008 Center Cole Penner and left shot D Rydley Gerbrandt from La Crete, Alberta. The 6’1 Penner had a dominating season last year for the La Crete Lumber Barons of the NWJHL. In 40 regular season games, the then 16 year old tallied 27 goals to go along with 61 assists, totalling 88 points for the top spot in the NWJHL scoring leaders. In 15 playoff games, the points continued for Cole, as he scored 8 goals and 14 assists for 22 points. Gerbrandt was just as impressive on the blue line, as the 16 year old finished second in Defenceman scoring. In 35 games, the 5’11 blueliner tallied 7 goals to go along with 31 assists. In 15 playoff games, Rydley scored 6 goals and added 6 assists for 12 points. Welcome to the Storm, Cole and Rydley!

GM Mark Bomersback had this to say about the signings” Very excited to add Cole and Rydley to the team and the city of Grande Prairie. Both players came to our spring camp this past spring and were very impressive. Dion Knelsen, the head coach of the Lumber Barons, did a great job with their development last season and we feel both players are ready to take the next step. They’re both tremendous kids with great attitudes and I think this is just the beginning of what’s to come. Cole has a great skill set and is a very smart player. When you’re 16 years old and you lead an older league in scoring, you’re definitely doing something right.  He’s a player who can set up goals or put them in himself , as he continues to develop , mature, and gets stronger, I think he can be a real force in the AJHL for years to come. The same can be said for Rydley, who is a good skating, mobile D with good offensive skills and upside. Rydley. who is still 16, had a great season for the Lumber Barons  and it was a great year for his development playing against older, stronger players. We are excited to add both players and look forward to training camp.”