The East Kootenay U18 Avalanche, led by Kimberley local and former Dynamiters asst. coach Mike Reid have signed two more of their players into the KIJHL.

This comes following the announcement that three of their players had signed to the Dynamiters for the 2023/24 season.

READ MORE: New Dynamiters signings highlight success of regional AA program

Davis Young and Logan Messer, both born in Cranbrook in 2006, have now signed to the KIJHL, with Young heading to the Creston Valley Thunder Cats and Messer to the Osoyoos Coyotes

Young was the captain of the Avalanche, and Reid said, “when you captain a championship team that says a lot about your character right there.”

“He’s an outstanding defender and shot-blocker and an exceptional leader, so Creston is getting a very good human being and also a very good hockey player,” he added.

Young told the Bulletin he had an amazing experience with the Avalanche and that being named captain was a huge boost to his confidence as a player.

“I can’t thank coach Mike enough for helping me develop and pushing me to be a better player on and off the ice,” he said. “I’m super excited and very thankful for the opportunity Creston gave me, I’m looking forward to a season of development and hard work.”

Reid described Messer as a “200-foot player in all situations,” as well as an elite-level penalty killer.

“He’s definitely going to fit in Osoyoos and we’ll definitely going to miss both players in our lineup this year, but we’re super excited for them for this opportunity.”

Messer said he is really looking forward to playing with the Coyotes.

“This past season with the Av’s was an exciting experience and I couldn’t have asked for a better end than winning gold at provincials with my teammates,” he said. “I appreciate all the help the Av’s coaching staff gave me to help improve and develop my game.”

paul.rodgers@kimberleybulletin
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