Langley Rivermen forward Marcus Vela was drafted by the San Jose Sharks in the seventh round, 190th overall.
Vela became the third Rivermen alumni drafted into the NHL, joining Matt Ustaski and Evan Campbell.
“It’s an honour to be drafted by the Sharks organization,” he said. “It’s a proud moment for myself and my family.”
The 18 year old scored 46 points (20g, 26a) in 50 games last season with the Rivermen.
“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. On behalf of the Langley Rivermen organization, we would like to congratulate Marcus and wish him best of luck in his future.”
Last season, he was selected to play for Canada West at the 2014 World Junior ‘A’ Hockey Challenge as well as Canada West in the 2015 CJHL Prospects Game.
After 2 seasons in Langley, Vela will head to the University of New Hampshire in the fall to play NCAA Division I Hockey and pursue a degree in Business.
