Pair of forwards, defenceman commit to Langley Rivermen for next season

The Langley Rivermen have added two forwards with leadership qualities and a blueliner from Las Vegas to their fold.

Last week, Langley’s junior A hockey team announced the commitments of Ryan Barrow (born in 1997), and 1996-born Chase Zieky and Brenden Russ to the its roster for the 2015/16 season.

“We’re excited to have these three young men join the Rivermen organization,” Langley head coach and general manager Bobby Henderson said. “They’re outstanding players and each will make immediate impacts with the team.”

Barrow, born in Banff, Alta., played for the Banff Hockey Academy Prep team where he finished second in the Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL) in scoring in the 2014/15 season.

As captain, Barrow netted 65 points (25 goals, 40 assists) in 27 games, leading the team in scoring.

“He’s a great playmaker with excellent vision who will bolster our offence this season,” Henderson said.

The forward also finished in the top 10 in scoring in the Heritage Junior ‘B’ Hockey League with 63 points (24 goals, 39 assists) in 31 games with Banff.

“After talking with the coaching staff, the program sounded first class,” Barrow said. “It was a pretty easy decision for me and my family.”

He added, “I’ve seen the rink a couple times and compared to other junior ‘A’ rinks, it’s seems pretty unbelievable.”

Zieky, from Avon, Conn., played for the Avon Old Farms, a prep school in Avon.

As team captain, he scored 45 points (26 goals, 27 assists) in 26 games this past season.

“It was one of my first junior teams I talked to,” Zieky said. “I did some research, looked it up and knew that’s where I wanted to play. I’ve heard nothing but good things about Langley.”

“Chase is a natural goal scorer who’s got size, strength and skill,” Henderson said. “We’re excited to see him play in a Rivermen jersey.

Russ, from Las Vegas, Nev., played at Choate Rosemary Hall, a prep school in Wallingford, Connecticut.

In 28 games, the defenceman scored 15 points (eight goals, seven assists) this past season.

“Brenden is a puck-moving defenseman who is very good on the power play,” Henderson said.

Describing his style, Russ said, “I like to play defence first. I can also jump into the rush and help put points on the board.”

All three players will be taking part in the Rivermen’s training camp in August.

Season tickets for next season are on sale now for $99.

For details visit www.langleyrivermen.com.