The Thunder Cats continue to add from the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League as well as keeping the Northern Alberta connection alive. Hedges, who has played with multiple players on the ‘Cats roster was originally contacted by the Thunder Cats in the spring and identified as one of the off-season’s top targets. His skill and work ethic was enough to land him a spot with the Nipawin Hawks of the SJHL. After a relatively successful start in Nipawin, some trades left him available for the Thunder Cats.
When asked about his decision to come to Creston, Hedges explained, “I had a good experience in Nipawin, and I think that the speed and physicality of the SJHL should translate into the style of the Thunder Cats. It’s a strong team and I have a lot of trust in Bill that he can help me develop and get to the next level”.
“Landon believes in the group that we have. He is an impact player, that plays the right way. His ethics and accountability for team buy-in over individual success are some things that he shares with the group. We were all very clear on our expectations with each other and ultimately the fit was right”, General Manager Bill Rotheisler commented.
Associate Coach Brandon Switzer commented, “[Landon is a] Speedy gritty forward, that brings junior A experience to an already experienced team. He adds to an already strong core, and we are excited to add him to the mix”.
In other moves, the Creston Valley Thunder Cats sent Eric Van Loon to the Comox Valley Glacier Kings of the VIJHL, in a 3-way deal to create room for the signing. General Manager Rotheisler comment on Van Loon’s departure, “Eric was an important part of our group for over a year and was with us during some challenging times. I would like to Thank Eric for his work with us during that time. Comox is getting a good player and even better person”.
