U17 Team Canada Player and Former Penticton Vees Defenceman Gabriel Guilbault Swaps Jerseys, Brings His Elite Defensive Skills to Langley Rivermen
Langley, BC – June 6, 2023 – The Langley Rivermen of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) are thrilled to announce the acquisition of standout defenceman Gabriel Guilbault from the Penticton Vees.
Burt Henderson, Head Coach and GM, is looking forward to working with Guilbault again, having previously coached him in Rivermen spring programs. “I’m excited to coach Gabriel again,” said Henderson. “I first saw him as a youth playing in the Rivermen spring programs. His dedication and skill were evident even then, and I’m thrilled to see how he has developed as a player.”
Guilbault, a Burnaby native who spent an impactful season with the Vees, is now set to embrace new challenges with the Rivermen. “I am excited to get an opportunity with the Rivermen, I know it will be a great year, I’m just really looking forward to it.” said Guilbault.
One of the significant highlights of Guilbault’s career thus far has been his selection to Team Canada Red’s roster for the 2022 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge. This notable accomplishment underscores his skill level and the potential he brings to the Rivermen’s defensive lineup.
Henderson shared his optimism about Guilbault’s addition to the team, stating, “Guilbault is a formidable defenceman who brings a great deal of experience and skill to our team. His stint with Team Canada at the Under-17 level is a testament to that. We’re confident that his move to Langley will not only strengthen our defence but also inspire our local fans.”
On the ownership front, new co-owners Jamie Schreder and Dana Matheson expressed their enthusiasm for Guilbault’s arrival. “Gabriel is the kind of player that embodies the direction we want to take this team – full of passion, skill, and a dedication to hockey that is unrivaled,” said Schreder. Matheson added, “His addition is the next step in our commitment to building a stronger team and fostering a winning culture under our new ownership.”
Schreder and Matheson, both local entrepreneurs with deep roots in the community, recently took over the ownership of the Langley Rivermen. Their vision is to build a high-performing team that not only excels on the ice but also actively engages with and gives back to the Langley community. Guilbault’s homecoming and the passion he brings to the game align perfectly with this vision.
The Rivermen eagerly anticipate the upcoming 2023/2024 season and look forward to seeing Guilbault in action on home ice.
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