The Campbell River Storm has acquired forward Reece Costain and goaltender Riley Welyk in exchange for future considerations. Both deals were made just prior to the VIJHL trade deadline of January 10.
Costain, 19, was in his third season with the Peninsula Panthers. The Edmonton native has six goals, 11 assists, and 77 minutes in penalties during the current campaign. He also spent time with the Victoria Grizzlies and Cowichan Valley Capitals of the BCHL.
“Reece is a player we identified almost immediately when he returned from the BCHL,” said Storm head coach and general manager Lee Stone. “Peninsula told us they wanted to wait until the trade deadline and we are thrilled to finalize the deal. He’s a big centreman who skates well and can change a game with his physicality. He’s also extremely hard to play against and will be a solid playoff performer for us.”
Costain agrees that being physical is a big part of his game but adds he has some finesse skills as well. The 6’3”, 195 pound VIJHL veteran says he’s looking forward to the move to Campbell River.
“I’m very excited to be joining the Storm,” Costain said. “They seem to be a great organization with strong coaching and skilled players.”
Welyk, 17, was acquired from the Westshore Wolves. The rookie goaltender has posted a record of six wins, six losses, and one tie so far this season with a GAA of 4.29 and a save percentage of .866.
“Riley is a highly sought after young goalie,” says Stone. “He fought his way through the Victoria Grizzlies main camp and had a great start with Westshore, including stoning us in overtime to steal a tie and break our winning streak at the beginning of the season.”
Welyk, who grew up in North Vancouver, is also excited about joining the Storm and doing whatever it takes to win a championship.
“At 5’11” and 170 pounds, I’m not the biggest goalie but I perform a hybrid style and take advantage of my athleticism,” he says. “ I also try to play smart by reading the play, thrive in high pressure situations, and am mentally tough.”
Welyk replaces Drew Stuve who was recently ruled ineligible by VIJHL officials because of games he played earlier this season for the Dallas Snipers of the Western States Hockey League.