Vincent is a Special Olympics medallist, advocate, and mentor whose enthusiasm for the event and support of his peers has earned him an incredible reputation in his hometown of Richmond, B.C.

Ryan Scheer, an amateur boxer, will be the Pod’s lifeline for players at home and on the road.

Francis “Butch” La Roue has been a defensive stalwart for the franchise. A vocal leader, La Roue, 20, played in his 100th PJHL game – all with the Pod – Oct. 16.

The Whalers have a bounty of experienced leaders to draw upon – a group of young men who weathered a lost season together.

Peters will miss the “tight-knit group” of the Pod’s coaching staff and players.

Four familiar faces will not return to Centennial Arena: Cole Svendson and Connor Beemish have committed to new teams; David Moody and Seth Hebert were traded.

CLOVERDALE – After 21 months, Whaler Sam Dowell’s hair length has slowly inched to a significant milestone: long enough to cut for a chemotherapy patient’s wig.

Ronnie Paterson, owner of the Whalers, hosted the question-and-answer session. “We’re blessed and fortunate to have a couple of friends here,” he said.