Vipers Announce Leadership Group

Vernon, BC: The Vernon Vipers are pleased to announce their leadership group for the upcoming season.

The next captain of the franchise will be JoJo Tanaka-Campbell. The Mill Bay, BC product will be donning the 'C' entering his final year of junior hockey.

"It's definitely an honour to wear a letter and something I've worked towards," says Tanaka-Campbell. "I'm really excited for what is to come with this group. I think it's an extremely special group of guys this year, so I'm looking forward to what we can achieve."

JoJo is second on the team in games played over the last 3 seasons. Second only to one of the 3 assistant captains, Nick Kent. Kent has spent 3 seasons in the BCHL and has amassed over 100 games played including a league championship with Wenatchee.

"It's a big honour at this point in my career," says Kent. "I have watched other veterans in this role over the last two years and I'm looking forward to stepping in and mentoring younger players."

The Ladera Ranch, California product recently committed to Mercyhurst for next season.

The second assistant captain is 3rd year Viper, Ryan Shostak. He took huge steps last season in a very difficult season, not only contributing offensively and defensively on the ice, but a leadership role as well.

"I'm very honoured to be named an assistant captain," says the Calgary product. "I want to set a good example for my teammates on and off the ice. Our team has a ton of upside and I"m looking forward to what we can accomplish this year!"

Kjell Kjemhus will also wear an 'A' for the Vipers this season.

"I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity I have received to be a leader for the Vipers," says Kjemhus. "We have a fantastic group of young men on the team and I am super excited for my final season of junior hockey!"

The group is made up of four 20 year olds who have a ton of experience and learned from some great leaders before them.

"As a staff we feel very confident in the young men that will make up our leadership group," says Head Coach and GM of the Vipers Jason McKee. "Each player brings something different to the team that is well respected by their teammates and the organization."

The Vipers kick off the regular season this Friday when they take on the on Penticton Vees.