Two Prince Rupert hockey players are hitting the ice on Sept. 25 with the U15 Cariboo Cougars to play their first competitive game of the season.
Holding down the team’s backline will be defenceman Magnus Veldman, while forward Cooper Magnusson will be bringing the heat to their BCEHL opponents throughout the year. The two Rupert players will be helping their adopted team bring home this year’s league trophy.
The Cariboo Cougars will open their BC Elite Hockey League campaign with back-to-back games visiting the Vancouver North East Chiefs on Sept. 25 and Sept. 26.
“Magnus, he’s a good hockey player. He’s a bigger kid, he’s got some offensive abilities [and] he’s got a good skill set,” Mirsad Mujcin, Cariboo Cougars head coach, said. “I predict him to be a good solid defenceman by the end of the year for sure … and he’s going to use his size to his advantage.”
Veldman will be seeing power play time throughout the season and being utilized to his full potential to help fill out multiple teams roles as the year progresses, Mujcin said.
The offensive lineup is also looking promising going into this weekend’s away games.
“Cooper, he’s a really great skater. He plays the game at a good intensity and good speed. He’s got a great shot. He’s going to be leaned on to provide offence for our team,” Mujcin said. “I’m looking forward to him. He’s smart and he’s picked up some of our zone tactics already … and I think he’s going to be a great player.”
The coach also praised Magnusson’s work ethic and is looking forward to seeing a possible transition into a leadership role.
The team’s goal is to start off the season strong with two away wins while visiting their southern opponents this weekend, and Mujcin is feeling positive that the team will do well.
Norman Galimski | Journalist
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