Langley Rivermen head coach Bobby Henderson is excited about the recent acquisition of forward Mitch Newsome.
On Aug. 11, Henderson completed a trade with the Penticton Vees to acquire the 1997-born Surrey native in exchange for defenceman Tyler Niven (1996 born).
“He’s a high-energy player,” Henderson said, of Newsome. “He’s about as well-rounded as they come and he’s a big part of our future. He’s a pretty big get for us.”
Newsome just completed his first season in the B.C. Hockey League, notching six goals and 23 points in 49 regular season games.
The Valley West Hawks alum will likely see an expanded role in the Rivermen offence.
“We are very excited to pick up a player like Mitch,” Henderson said, adding that the deal adds skill and depth to his team. “He brings valuable experience to the team as well after his playoff run with Penticton and we expect him to be an impact player for us.”
Newsome said the opportunity to play close to home was appealing, “I’m excited to get back home and play for my friends and family on a regular basis. It’s going to be an exciting year and I can’t wait to be a big part of the Rivermen this year.”
Newsome has already received a scholarship to attend Michigan Tech University in the fall of 2016.
The Rivermen start their training camp at the Langley Events Centre this Monday, Aug. 24.
Langley opens its exhibition season on Wednesday, Aug. 26 when they travel to Salmon Arm to play the Silverbacks.
The Rivermen return home the next day (Thursday, Aug. 27) to take on the Coquitlam Express at the Langley Sportsplex as their exhibition slate continues. That game gets underway at 5 p.m.
Tickets for the Rivermen’s home opener, set for Saturday, Sept. 19 against the Prince George Spruce Kings at the LEC, are on sale now at www.Ticketmaster.ca or by visiting the events centre.
