The Humboldt Broncos are shoring up the lineup heading into the holiday season.
First, the Horsemen have brought in Matthew Van Blaricom sooner than expected. The Broncos have announced that their top draft pick in the 2022 SJHL Draft, picked in the first round, 6th overall, will join the team immediately for the remainder of the 2022/23 season.
Originally signed for next season, Van Blaricom has been having an exceptional year with the Tisdale Trojans U18 AAA program, posting 22 points (13g-9a) in just 17 games, both Van Blaricom and Broncos’ Head Coach, Scott Barney agreed he was ready for the jump to the SJHL to continue his hockey progression.
“This is very exciting for the Broncos, our fan base, and for Matthew,” said Barney. “Tisdale has done an excellent job in developing Matthew and he’s now ready for the next step in his hockey career.”
Van Blaricom currently leads the Trojans in both points and goals this season, while he’s 3rd in the entire league in goals, and 8th in points.
The 2006 born, Southey, SK product has already made his SJHL debut with the Broncos on November 9th, 2022, scoring a powerplay goal in a 4-1 win over the Notre Dame Hounds. The goal also stood as the game winner.
Shortly after, the Broncos announced they've acquired 2003 born defenseman Chase Cooke from the Merritt Centennials in exchange for future considerations.
Cooke is a veteran defenseman of the BCHL, playing the past four seasons for his hometown Centennials, accumulating 112 games of experience.
“When you can add a veteran of over 100 games of experience in the BCHL, it’s a good thing,” said Scott Barney. “Chase brings a defense-first approach to the game and will be a calming presence in our D-zone.”
This season, the 19-year-old has three assists in 17 games with Merritt.
The additions will create an exciting dynamic with the existing squad. The Broncos get back to work on Saturday night (November 26) when the Yorkton Terriers roll in. Grab your tickets and get set for the play by play on 107.5 Bolt FM.