Harrison Blaisdell of the Chilliwack Chiefs tries to get the puck past the Langley Rivermen goaltender during a recent BCHL game at Prospera Centre. (Jenna Hauck/ The Progress)

Harrison Blaisdell of the Chilliwack Chiefs tries to get the puck past the Langley Rivermen goaltender during a recent BCHL game at Prospera Centre. (Jenna Hauck/ The Progress)

Chilliwack Chief Harrison Blaisdell chosen to play in World Junior A Challenge

Blaisdell is one of 14 BCHL skaters named to the 22 man Team Canada West roster for the tournament.

Chilliwack Chiefs forward Harrison Blaisdell has made the final roster for Team Canada West and will play in the 2018 World Junior A Challenge.

Hockey Canada revealed the roster Wednesday afternoon, with BCHLers taking 14 of the 22 spots.

Blaisdell, who has 20 lexander Campbell and Riley Huges, Penticton’s Massimo Rizzo, David Silye, Merritt’s Mathieu Gosselin, Langley’s Ethan Leyh and Vernon’s Alex Swetlikoff.

The Team Canada West defence includes Victoria’s Jeremie Bucheler and Carter Berger, Penticton’s Mason Snell, Vernon’s Jack Judson and Prince George’s Layton Ahac.

“After months of preparation and identifying players, it was great to gather in Calgary and allow the players to compete for a spot on Team Canada West,” said Kevin Saurette, director of operations for Team Canada West. “Whenever you gather the best players from five Junior A leagues, there are bound to be difficult decisions. We believe we have a strong group of talented players, and we look forward to the challenge of competing for a gold medal.”

Players on the team hail from the BCHL, AJHL (Alberta), SJHL (Saskatchewan), MJHL (Manitoba) and SIJHL (Superior International/Ontario).

From Dec. 9-16, Team Canada West will join Team Canada East, the Czech Republic, Russia and the United States in Bonnyville, Alberta.

Blaisdell’s crew opens Sunday night against the United States.

See hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/national-championships/men/world-junior-a/2018

Chilliwack Progress