CAMPBELL RIVER, BC — The Campbell River Storm of the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League (VIJHL) are pleased to announce the signing of 2009-born defenseman Tyson Laidlaw.
Laidlaw, a Campbell River native, comes to the Storm after spending last season with the Pacific Coast Hockey Academy in the CSSHL’s U17 Prep league. The young blue-liner brings a physical, defensive-first game to the Storm’s backend.
“Tyson is a big, lanky defender who has a strong defensive stick and plays a mean, old school style of game,” said Head Coach and General Manager Lee Stone. “His talent is very protectable to the next level because, so few defenders are willing to play the game hard and take pride in the defensive side. With his size and his defensive acumen, he has the potential to play the game for a long time.”
Stone added: “We’re always thrilled when a local boy wants to come home and play with the Storm. Having Tyson part of our group will add local flavor while giving him a chance to develop his game to the next level!”
For Laidlaw, suiting up for the Storm represents the fulfillment of a lifelong goal.
“I signed with the Storm because I’ve always wanted to play in my hometown and playing for the Storm has been a dream since I was young,” said Laidlaw. “I’m most looking forward to playing in Campbell River and to be in front of the fans of my hometown.”
Campbell River fans can expect plenty to look forward to from their newest local product.
“Fans at the Brindy can expect a mean, gritty, defensive defenseman who will drop the gloves whenever necessary,” Laidlaw said.
The Campbell River Storm open the 2026–27 VIJHL season at Rod Brind’Amour Arena. Season and season ticket information will be available through the organization’s social media throughout the summer months!
CAMPBELL RIVER, BC — The Campbell River Storm of the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League (VIJHL) are pleased to announce the signing of 2009-born forward Foster Armstrong of Terrace, BC.
Armstrong spent the 2025–26 season with the PCHA U17 Prep program competing in the Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL), developing his game against some of the top prep talent in the country.
“Foster is a big-bodied power forward type that has the potential to play at the next level,” said Head Coach and General Manager Lee Stone. “He’s not afraid to get physical in all three zones and plays inside the dots and gets to the dirty areas. He plays a heavy, heavy game.”
Stone emphasized the character traits that made Armstrong an attractive addition to the Storm.
“He exemplifies the type of player we want to work with. Hard working, driven, and plays the game a bit old school. He’s made efforts to graduate early which shows his focus on playing Collegiate Hockey in the future. We are excited to work with Foster to help him take his game to the next level!”
Armstrong expressed confidence that Campbell River is the right fit for the next stage of his development.
“I signed with the Campbell River Storm because I felt it was the best place for me to continue developing as a player,” said Armstrong. “I’m looking forward to playing in front of the fans, being part of the community, and building strong relationships with my teammates and coaches.”
The Terrace native is eager to bring his physical brand of hockey to Rod Brind’Amour Arena.
“Fans can expect a hardworking, competitive player who’s willing to be gritty. I like to be strong on the puck, drive the net, create offensive chances, and do whatever it takes to help the team win,” said Armstrong.
CAMPBELL RIVER, BC — The Campbell River Storm of the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League (VIJHL) are pleased to announce the signing of 2010-born forward Jadon McNamee.
McNamee comes to Campbell River following a standout season with the Kingston Gaels U16 AAA program, where he recorded 16 goals and 16 assists for 32 points in 40 regular season and playoff games. The physical forward also saw time at the U18 AAA level, posting 2 goals and 1 assist in 8 appearances — a testament to his ability to compete above his age group.
“Jadon is an exceptional talent that oozes potential,” said Head Coach and General Manager Lee Stone. “As a 16-year-old, the transition to Junior Hockey will be a big one, but Jadon plays a style of game that will allow him to be successful against much older players.”
Stone added: “He’s a prototypical power forward. Skilled with elite vision, but also a willingness to engage physically and get to the blue paint. We are thrilled Jadon chose to join the Storm family!”
McNamee cited the organization’s reputation as a key factor in his decision.
“I decided to sign with Campbell River because I believe they’re one of the top organizations in the VIJHL. I was looking for a coach and organization that believes in me and can help me develop, and I feel Coach Lee and the Storm are the right fit.” said McNamee.
The Napanee native is eager to make an immediate impact on the ice and in the community.
“What I look forward to the most about playing in Campbell River is competing at a high level, night in and night out, in front of a packed arena!” said McNamee. “The style of player I would describe myself as is an extremely hardworking, aggressive forward. I consider myself physical as well as a smart player!”
McNamee will continue wearing #67, a number that holds special meaning to him and honours the memory and legacy of Camden Arthur, a young player and former teammate from his hometown of Napanee, ON.
Prolific Point Producer Joins Storm After Dominant Midget Career
CAMPBELL RIVER, B.C. — The Campbell River Storm of the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League (VIJHL) are pleased to announce the signing of 2008-born forward Austin Cote for the 2026-27 season.
Cote arrives in Campbell River off the back of an exceptional three-year run with the Riggers Hockey Academy 18U program, where he posted a remarkable 126 points in just 77 games — one of the most productive stretches of any player coming into the Storm organization. He further cemented his status as a top prospect at the Storm’s recent combined camp in Comox, where his impact was felt immediately.
“Austin wasted no time making an impression at our most recent camp in Comox,” said Head Coach and General Manager Lee Stone. “The first period of the first game he created multiple scoring chances and capped off a multi-point night with a rocket of a shot. His skill set is undeniable, but what impressed me most was his IQ and willingness to get above the puck and create turnovers skating downhill.”
For Cote, Campbell River stood out as the clear destination to take his game to the next level.
“I signed with the Campbell River Storm because I felt it was the best place to develop as a player and compete with such a great organization,” said Cote. “I look forward to excelling as a player and doing as much as I can towards winning the championship.”
Storm fans can expect an electric presence up front when Cote hits the ice this fall.
“I’m a playmaking sniper and the kind of guy that likes to keep the game entertaining,” Cote said.
The Campbell River Storm will open the 2026-27 VIJHL season this fall. Season ticket and sponsorship information will be made available through the organization’s official channels.
CAMPBELL RIVER, BC — The Campbell River Storm of the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League (VIJHL) are pleased to announce the signing of right-handed defenseman Dublin McGuire for the 2026–27 season.
McGuire, a 2008-born blueliner, comes to Campbell River after spending last season with the Wenatchee Wild U18 AAA program in the CSSHL, where he recorded 1 goal and 10 assists for 11 points in 28 games.
“One of the most important qualities we look for in any player is a high compete level,” said Head Coach and General Manager Lee Stone. “Dublin brings this in all areas of his game and will be an example of the type of work ethic we want in our program.”
Stone was quick to highlight what separates McGuire from the pack. “What we think what stands out for him is his ability to transition pucks up ice and make plays in the offensive zone while not sacrificing the defensive side of the game. Truthfully, he is my type of defenseman; a smooth skater that executes with the puck on his stick. We are very excited to welcome Dublin to the Storm family!”
McGuire expressed confidence in his decision to join the Storm organization. “I signed with the Campbell River Storm because I felt it was the best place for me to continue my hockey career and keep developing as a player and person. The organization has a strong culture surrounding the team and an inviting and reputable coaching staff. I’m excited for the opportunity to contribute to this program and bring everything I have to help the team compete in this league.”
The young blueliner is eager to make his mark on the ice and in the community. “What I look forward to most about playing in Campbell River is the opportunity to compete every time I step on the ice wearing a Storm jersey. I’m excited to represent the team and community and do everything I can to help us succeed.”
When asked what fans can expect, McGuire didn’t hold back. “Fans can expect a 200-foot gritty defenseman who is fun to watch in the offensive zone and smooth and composed in the defensive zone. Expect a player that won’t let anyone else on the ice out work them.”
Two-Way Blue-Liner Brings Jr. A and International Experience to the Storm
CAMPBELL RIVER, B.C. — The Campbell River Storm of the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League (VIJHL) are pleased to announce the signing of 2007-born left-handed defenseman Owen Kwok for the 2026-27 season.
Kwok spent the 2025-26 campaign with the Brockville Braves of the Central Canada Hockey League (CCHL), gaining valuable Junior A experience, while also suiting up for the Hong Kong U20 National Team at the international level.
“Owen is a smooth skating two-way defender that has Jr. A experience in the CCHL and has played with his National U20 team,” said Head Coach and General Manager Lee Stone. “Adding someone with his level of experience is a big boost to our backend. We feel strongly that Owen will make an immediate impact in the Storm lineup.”
Kwok expressed enthusiasm about joining the organization and what drew him to Campbell River.
“I chose to sign with the Campbell River Storm because of how structured the team is, focusing on player development and growth,” said Kwok. “The culture and fans also played a crucial role in signing with the Storm.”
The young blueliner is eager to make his mark with Storm fans from the drop of the first puck.
“The fans can expect a skilled two-way defenseman who can generate offence from the blue line,” Kwok said. “I’m most excited to meet the team and play in front of the fans that show up for us every game.”
The Campbell River Storm will open the 2026-27 VIJHL season this fall. Season ticket and sponsorship information will be made available through the organization’s official channels.
CAMPBELL RIVER, B.C. – The Campbell River Storm are pleased to announce the signing of defenceman 2008 born right-handed defenseman Brady Desharnais for the 2026-27 season.
Desharnais comes to Campbell River after spending the past two seasons with the Coquitlam HC 18U program, where he tallied 32 points over 58 games. The blueliner also gained valuable junior experience last season, suiting up for two games with the Coquitlam Express of the BCHL.
A connection to the Express organization played a role in Desharnais’ decision to join the Storm.
“I signed with the Campbell River Storm as I felt it was a good fit for me to develop my game into becoming a better player in hopes of making it to the next level,” said Desharnais. “The culture that was talked about during the recruiting process was also a huge factor as last year it was a big thing for me and I’m hoping to carry that on to this year. I also have a connection with the coaches through the Coquitlam Express program and have been able to see first-hand the kind of feedback I would get during the season to help me improve as not only a player but also a person.”
Desharnais describes himself as a battle-tested, defensive-minded blueliner with offensive upside.
“I bring a hard-nosed two-way style of play with a reliable first pass,” he said. “I like to get in the corners and establish myself as someone who is hard to play against. I can also show some offence from time to time and am excited to work on that side of my game more as well this year.”
The Coquitlam native is also looking forward to experiencing junior hockey in a tight-knit community for the first time.
“I am most excited for the fanbase in Campbell River,” said Desharnais. “Coming from a bigger city I never really got to experience the support a smaller town gives to their sports teams, so I am greatly looking forward to seeing all the fans and supporters at each home game.”
Storm Head Coach and General Manager Lee Stone is excited to add Desharnais to a deepening defensive core.
“Brady is a super dependable, two-way defenseman that takes serious pride in doing the little things necessary to win games,” said Stone. “He has a strong defensive stick, plays a hard game and his willingness to sacrifice for the team is second to none!”
Stone sees significant upside in the young blueliner’s game.
“Brady makes a good first pass and will be a key defenseman in our lineup this upcoming season and we believe he will be a Jr A defenseman in the near future!”
CAMPBELL RIVER, BC — The Campbell River Storm of the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League (VIJHL) are pleased to announce the signing of 2007-born forward Aidan Ansell for the upcoming 2026-27 season.
Ansell, a left-handed forward, brings two years of junior hockey experience to Campbell River. The 18-year-old split the 2025-26 season between the Chilliwack Jets and Nelson Leafs, having spent his entire rookie campaign in 2024-25 with the Jets. Over the course of his junior career, Ansell has appeared in 79 games and established himself as a physical, high-compete presence up front.
“Aidan is a gamer,” said Storm Head Coach and General Manager Lee Stone. “The type of player that you win hockey games in March and April with. He is great on the forecheck and provides a level of physicality that Storm fans will fall in love with.”
“He gets the game and understands how a dressing room should run. He knows that doing the little things on and off the ice makes a difference every day. We are thrilled to welcome Aidan to the Storm family and can’t wait to see him leaving his mark at the Brindy!”
Ansell cited the organization’s environment and coaching staff as key factors in his decision to sign with Campbell River.
“I signed with the Storm because of the professional setting the organization gives, the positive communication you can have with the coaches and the opportunity the Storm has provided me,” said Ansell.
“I look forward to the culture and the facilities. Coaches were saying how much they care about culture, which I believe is one of the most important things a hockey team needs during the season.”
A self-described physical, play-driving winger, Ansell models his game after Washington Capitals power forward Tom Wilson.
“A style of player I like to base my game off is Tom Wilson — he’s been my idol for a while,” said Ansell. “I love the role of being first into corners and engaging the game physically to create space for my team while also making plays and helping the team.”
Ansell joins a growing Storm roster as the organization continues to build toward the 2026-27 VIJHL season.
CAMPBELL RIVER, BC – The Campbell River Storm of the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League (VIJHL) are pleased to announce the signing of goaltender Rhys Penninga. The 2008-born netminder joins the Storm after an outstanding season with the Coquitlam HC 18U program in the JPHL.
Penninga was one of the most decorated goaltenders in the JPHL 18U division last season, finishing 1st in save percentage with a .941 SP and 3rd in goals against average with a 2.26 GAA. His numbers position him as one of the most sought-after goaltending prospects from his age group on the West Coast.
“Rhys is a bonafide goalie prospect that was one of, if not, the best goalie in the JPHL 18U league last season,” said Head Coach and General Manager Lee Stone. “He’s a very athletic goalie that moves incredibly well in his paint. He also comes from a program where culture and discipline are at the forefront.”
Stone believes the signing will have an immediate impact on the Storm’s program heading into the 2026-27 season. “We think Rhys strengthens our program both on and off the ice and can be a top goaltender in the VIJHL!”
For Penninga, the decision to join Campbell River was rooted in the organization’s values. “I signed with the Campbell River Storm because it’s a culture and development first environment where I can develop my game, as well as playing with a family and not just a team,” said Penninga.
The young netminder is eager to make his mark in the league and bring his competitive edge to the crease.
“I am a fast, athletic, and competitive goalie that will do anything to keep the puck out of the net,” he said. “I look forward to winning in front of the best fans in the VIJHL!”
The Campbell River Storm open the 2026-27 VIJHL season this fall. Fans are encouraged to follow the team on social media for the latest roster news and updates.
Bosum joins a growing Storm roster as the organization continues to build toward the 2026-27 VIJHL season. Stay tuned to Storm channels for further roster and organizational announcements.
Campbell River, BC — The Campbell River Storm are pleased to announce the signing of 2007-born right-hand defenseman Kadyn Garcia.
Garcia arrives in Campbell River after a productive 2024-25 campaign with the Louisiana Drillers of the North American 3 Hockey League (NA3HL), where he posted 3 goals and 29 assists for 32 points in 27 games. The blueliner also appeared in four games with the Storm, giving the organization an early look at his abilities at the junior level.
“Kadyn is someone we have seen first hand playing Spring (BCSHL) with the Express,” said Head Coach and General Manager Lee Stone.
“His ability to transition pucks and beat F1 on the forecheck should translate incredibly well to our league. He defends the rush well and understands how and when to kill plays.”
Garcia cited the Storm’s reputation for player development as a key factor in his decision to sign with Campbell River.
“I signed with the Campbell River Storm because they are known as a team that grows and develops players on ice skills, but also helps them grow into great people off the ice as well,” said Garcia.
No stranger to the community, Garcia is eager to reconnect with the region he has come to know well.
“I’ve spent some time in Campbell River, so the thing I’m looking forward to most is being able to be part of such an amazing community,” he said.
Garcia arrives with championship aspirations firmly in mind heading into the new season.
“My goal for this season is to bring yet another championship back to Campbell River,” he said.
The Storm currently have their sights set on their combined camp with the Comox Valley Glacier Kings on May 29-31. For more information follow the Storm on all social media channels and visit www.campbellriverstorm.com
The Storm begin play in the 2025-26 VIJHL season later this fall. Stay tuned to the Campbell River Storm’s official channels for further roster and schedule announcements.
Campbell River, BC – The Campbell River Storm are proud to announce the signing of 2009-born forward Linden Kennedy. A Campbell River native, Kennedy returns home after spending last season with Delta Hockey Academy.
Kennedy brings an intelligent, two-way game to the Storm lineup, with a strong compete level and a team-first mentality. For the young forward, the opportunity to play junior hockey in his own backyard carries special meaning.
“I am most excited to play junior hockey at home and play for an amazing fan base,” said Kennedy. “Playing in front of my family means the world to me and I’m looking forward to meeting lots of new people in the Storm community!”
When asked to describe his game, Kennedy offered a confident and clear-eyed assessment. “I would describe myself as a smart, hard to play against, 200-foot player. Someone who can move the puck well and is a great team guy.”
Head Coach and General Manager Lee Stone has followed Kennedy’s development closely and is excited about what he brings to the Storm dressing room.
“Linden is someone I’ve worked closely with over the last several years and he is an outstanding young man full of personality. He will be a great fit in our dressing room, and even though he’s a young player, he will be a true glue guy in the room.”
Stone also highlighted the on-ice attributes that make Kennedy ready to contribute at the junior level right away.
“His tenacity and willingness to engage physically are both traits that will allow him to succeed against older players. His faceoff prowess and ability to block shots makes him reliable in all defensive situations, including killing penalties.”
Please join us in welcoming Linden Kennedy to the Storm family.
