The British Columbia Hockey League played the role of the Grinch to the Olds Grizzlys over the post-Christmas weekend.
The Black & Gold have lost two of their top scorers this season to the BCHL.
In a statement, the Grizzlys note that because the BCHL teams are in a non-sanctioned league – not under Hockey Canada – Olds will not receive anything in return for forwards Antonio Bevacqua (2006) and Mitch Patrick (2006).
The 18-year-old Bevacqua is from Langley, B.C. and he has joined the Salmon Arm Silverbacks. He was leading the Grizzlys in goals with 13 and points with 27 in 27 AJHL games at the time of his departure for the BCHL.
The 18-year-old Patrick is from Airdrie and he has left to suit up for the Nanaimo Clippers. Patrick was part of a three-way tie for second in points this season for Olds with 24 through 29 games.
Meanwhile, the Grizzlys have made one addition to their roster. 17-year-old forward Phoenix Flett (2007) comes to Olds from the Kootenay International Hockey League’s Grand Forks Border Bruins. Flett – who is from Strathmore – had a goal, 3 points and 30 penalty minutes in 10 games with the Border Bruins. He also played in a pair of AJHL games with the Devon Xtreme this season registering 4 penalty minutes but no points. According to the Elite Prospects website, Flett’s uncle is former National Hockey Leaguer Jeff Odgers. Flett is listed as 6’2″, 190 pounds.
The Olds Grizzlys return to Alberta Junior Hockey League action following the holiday break this Friday at home against Bonnyville (January 3rd) and on Saturday also at home versus Devon (January 4th).
The team will also be hosting the Ramada Inn U15 AA tournament from Thursday through Sunday at the SportsComplex (January 2-5).
