CHL Import Draft
The Royals took one player via the CHL import draft, 6'1 180lb Czech forward Lukas Kralik. Kralik is a big, skilled forward who is going to need some time to adapt himself to the rough and go style of the WHL. But with that kind of size, and soft hands, he shouldn't have a difficult time putting up points for the Royals.
Adding Leadership
On July 7th the Royals traded for overage D man Hayden Rintoul. Rintoul doesn't represent much for the future of the team, but he will provide much needed leadership for the team. Rintoul is a rugged D man, who is not afraid to drop the gloves. His experience in the WHL takes him through 3 seasons, a WHL Championship, and a trip to the Mastercard Memorial Cup.
Conacher Steps Down
July 26th the Royals announced the departure of assistant coach Pat Conacher. Conacher will take over as the Head Coach of the Regina Pats.
More Wheeling and Dealing
The Royals added 16 year old winger Justin Spagrud, and a 2nd round pick from the Tri City Americans for defenseman Mitch Topping.
Spagrud is 5'11, 170lb winger. His AAA midget numbers don't blow you away (9g, 7 a in 36gp) but, Spagrud will be given a legitimate chance to make the Royals this season.
Training Camp Schedule
Dates to note for the training camp schedule.
*August 25th-28th 8 am to 10 pm rookie camp scrimmages will take place between 8 teams of 1st year players.
*Main Camp Starts August 29th with scrimmages from 10-1pm and 5:15-10:15pm. August 30th ice times will take place at Bear Mountain Arena.
*August 31st will be the Royals Intrasquad game at Save On Foods Arena starting at 7:05. Admission to the game will be by donation. Check the link above for further information.
New, new voice of the Victoria Royals
The Victoria Royals were forced to go looking for a new, new voice of the team when would be play by play man, Dave Sawchuk took a career opportunity with EMI Canada. The Royals reached out, and grabbed former Lethbridge Hurricans play by play man Marlon Martens.
Follow Marlen on twitter @Marlon_Martens
I will be attending Thursday and Fridays rookie scrimmages at Save On Foods, and providing as in depth of a follow up as I can.
