RUNNER-UP FOR OJHL GOALTENDER OF THE YEAR AWARD HEADS WEST TO JOIN BULLDOGS
Port Alberni, BC – The Alberni Valley Bulldogs have completed a trade with the Whitby Fury of the Ontario Junior Hockey League, acquiring the CJHL playing rights of 2001-born goaltender Luke Pearson in return for defenceman Sam Pouliot and future considerations.
Pearson spent two seasons with the Fury, including a breakout campaign last year as a 17-year old that saw him post 25 wins, a 1.94 goals-against average and .938 save-percentage. He was the runner-up for the OJHL’s Goaltender of the Year award and was named to the league’s All-Prospect Team.
“Luke is a very talented goaltender who has proven himself as an excellent NCAA prospect over two seasons at the Junior A level,” says Bulldogs head coach Joe Martin. “We’re very excited to welcome Luke and his family to the Alberni Valley and the Bulldogs organization.”
“I’m looking forward to the new competition in the BCHL and meeting all my new teammates,” says Pearson, who describes himself as a calm goaltender who likes to keep everything under control and never give up on a play. “I’ve had conversations with the coaching staff and have heard nothing but positive things about the team and the Alberni Valley. I’m also looking forward to leaving my hometown to experience billeting and playing hockey in a different province.”
The 18-year old has high expectations for himself and his team heading into his first season with the Bulldogs.
“Personally, I want to give my team in front of me a chance to win every night and outplay the opposing goaltender,” he says. “I love to compete and want to prove I can be a top goalie in this league. As a team I believe that we can make playoffs and go on a run. I can’t wait to meet the guys and get ready for the upcoming season!”
Headed the other way in the deal is Pouliot, who joined the Bulldogs in an early season trade from the Powell River Kings and registered two assists in 37 regular season games. The 19-year old has also had two stints in the Western Hockey League with the Red Deer Rebels and Swift Current Broncos.
“We’d like to thank Sam for all his contributions in a Bulldogs uniform and wish him the best moving forward,” says Martin.
Pearson will join his new teammates when the Bulldogs’ 2019 Main Camp opens at the Alberni Valley Multiplex on August 19.
***
For more information, please contact:
Joe Martin
Head Coach/GM
(250) 723-4412
joe@albernivalleybulldogs.ca
