Marcus Vela’s hard work has paid off after hearing his name called in the NHL entry draft.
The San Jose Sharks selected the Langley Rivermen forward in the seventh round (190th overall) on Saturday in Sunrise, Fla.
“It’s an honour to be drafted by the Sharks organization,” Vela said.
“It’s a proud moment for myself and for my family.”
Vela is a six-foot-two, 204-pound forward.
The 18-year-old scored 20 goals and 46 points in 50 games last season in the BCHL with Langley. He also represented Canada West at the 2014 World Junior A Hockey Challenge as well as representing Canada West in the 2015 CJHL Prospects Game.
“We couldn’t be happier for Marcus,” said Rivermen head coach and general manager Bobby Henderson.
“He’s one of the hardest working individuals both on and off the ice I’ve had the pleasure of coaching.”
Vela spent two years with the Langley junior A hockey club and is off to the University of New Hampshire in the fall to play NCAA Division 1 hockey.
This is the third straight year a member of the Rivermen has been selected in the NHL draft.
Evan Campbell was taken by Edmonton in 2013 and Matt Ustaski by Winnipeg in 2014.
