Defenceman Grady Magner has been named the 24th Captain in the history of the Alberni Valley Bulldogs.
Forward Leim Smith and defenceman Trevor O’Dell, were named alternates.
“There’s just something special about Grady, he works incredibly hard in practice, stays out late on the ice, and goes to goalie skates. While he may not be the most vocal player, he leads by example, and on top of that he’s very competitive. Grady’s a darn good hockey player, and I believe he’s one of the best defencemen in this league.” said Head Coach and GM Joe Martin,
“As a person, he’s a great community guy, outstanding with the billets, and hungry to win.”
In the post season, the play-making rearguard struck at a point per game, with 5 in 5 contests, including 3 goals.
“He was visibly upset with our performance during our shortened playoff run, especially with the rivalry between the two teams, and that (Nanaimo) made it all the way to the finals. Our conversation at his exit interview stuck with all three of our coaching staff over the summer.” added Martin.
The 20 year old East Grand Forks, Minnesota native enters his second full season with the club after putting up 27 points in 51 games, including 19 assists.
“I’m proud and honoured to be named the Captain of such an unbelievable organization. I would like to thank my coaches and teammates for believing in me, and giving me this amazing opportunity.” said the 5’10 181 lb, mobile defenceman, who came to the Bulldogs after playing for the Janesville Jets, in the NAHL in 2024-25.
“I’ve got one goal this year, and it’s to take this team to the finals.” added Magner, confidently.
O’Dell, 20, is a Stouffville, Ontario native who brings size, standing in at 6’3 and190lbs, while providing a steadying presence on the back end.
He played the last two seasons with the OHL Sudbury Wolves, where he put up a combined 12 points and 53 penalty minutes in 114 contests.
Smith, 18, returns to the club after scoring 5 goals and added 9 assists in 39 contests last season.
The Rocky Mountain House, Alberta native brings a winning pedigree, earning a CSSHL U-18 Championship with Edge School back in 2023-24, and has played in the post season in each of his last 5 years.
