The Chilliwack Chiefs have added a pair of prospects to the pipeline.
Nicholas Cristiano is a pupil of newly-minted Chiefs goalie coach Mackenzie Skapski and has most recently played for the Fraser Valley Thunderbirds of the B.C. Major Midget Hockey League. While this season has been derailed by COVID, the 2004-born stopper produced solid numbers in 2019-20. Cristiano went 15-4-1 with a 2.86 goals-against average and three shutouts.
“Nic has a lot of engrained characteristics that are contributing to his progressive development,” Skapski said. “He offers unique compete, a great attitude and continues to execute as a goalie. We look forward to assisting Nic in his time with the Chiefs.”
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Also coming on board is 2003-born defender Joshua Orrico.
The product of Woodbridge, Ontario is currently with St. Andrews College (SAC), a prep school that has sent many players to the Chiefs in recent seasons. Last season, Orrico totalled six goals and 32 points in 56 games played and his scouting report describes him as a top-end skater with lots of skill.
“Josh is a player we feel will really add to our team speed and transition game next season.” said Chiefs associate coach and assistant GM Brad Rihela. “We are really excited that he made the decision to commit to Chilliwack. We have had a lot of success with recruiting players from SAC, and we know that with the great program coach David Manning and his staff run, these players are ready to step in and make an impact.”
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