Briercrest Hockey is proud to announce the recent commitments of goaltender Korlan Vader and defenseman Jake Gushue. Vader spent the 16-17 season with the French River Rapids in the NOJHL while Gushue split his last junior season with the English River Miners and the Dryden Ice Dogs of the SIJHL.

Vader (no relation to Darth), a goaltender product from Sherwood Park, Alberta began his junior career with the English River Miners in the SIJHL (Superior International Junior Hockey League) before being moved to backstop the French River Rapids. The 6’2 goaltender was named the MVP for his midget AAA team in his final year of midget eligibility and played a pivotal role for the Miners in their 15-16 playoff run.  Vader came out of his back-up role in the first round series to help lead the Miners to three straight victories. Away from the rink Vader enjoys the outdoors including hunting, fishing or trap shooting. He has also made it clear he is a die-hard fan of the Blue Jays and Edmonton Oiler; a common trend here at Briercrest and will certainly have no trouble fitting in.

“We are very excited to have Korlan join our program next season,” said Briercrest College hockey head coach Jamie Ramer.  “He brings with him some great Jr A experiences that has helped prepare him to compete at the next level. Most importantly I am excited to see him take the opportunity to continue to grow as a person, a leader, and in his faith at Briercrest.”

Gushue is the product of Maple Ridge, British Columbia and brings his massive 6’2, 220 lb body to bolster the Briercrest D-core. Playing his junior career with the English River Miners of the SIJHL and finishing with the Dryden Ice Dogs (also the SIJHL) this last season. He accumulated one goal and 17 assists in 45 regular season games and has been a key contributor in the playoffs thus far with two goals and one assist in five playoff games. Gushue is not only a gifted hockey player, but a great person off the ice. He was recognized for his off-ice contributions in the 15-16 season with the Miners when he was given the Community Service Award.

When Kent Walsten, Head Coach of the Dryden Ice Dogs was asked to share his thoughts on Jake’s contribution to his team this year and what he will bring to the Briercrest College men’s hockey program he emphasized Jake’s character.

“He is dedicated and will do anything for the team to win,” stated Walsten. “He’s a great teammate. We gave up an assistant captain and two-year kid to get him. He’s a good team player. Whatever you tell him to do he will do it. He’s going to add character to your team. I like Jake and I’m glad he’s going to your school.”

“We are very happy about the great fit that Jake is with our program,” said Ramer. “Jake will bring some significant Jr experience and size to our back end and we are excited to see him continue to develop as a player in the ACAC. We know he is very excited to be a part of our unique culture and desires to grow as a man of faith.”

The Briercrest College men’s hockey team is very excited to welcome Vader and Gushue to the Briercrest family. For more insights on the team follow us on Twitter: @BCrestHockey, and Instagram: @briercresthockey. As well “like” Briercrest Athletics  Facebook page for more updates on all of our athletic programs.