The 5 graduating Whalers players (born in 2004) are 48 Justin Osbourne , #17 Ty Balchen, #29 Zach MacDonald, #13 Connor Hughes and the Whalers captain, #58 Travis Smythe. | Photo courtesy of David Stevens Photography.
White Rock, BC – May 19, 2025
The White Rock Whalers organization would like to extend its heartfelt congratulations to Brien Gemmell, Adam Rossignol, and Royce Rossignol on their designation as the inaugural leadership and coaching team for the new Cloverdale Junior Hockey Club, set to join the Pacific Junior Hockey League (PJHL) for the 2025–26 season.
Over the last two seasons, Brien, Adam, and Royce have been integral to the Whalers organization's culture, development, and competitive success. Their leadership, passion, and commitment to our players and program have been exemplary. While we will deeply miss their presence behind our bench and in our dressing room, we know that they will be the right group to launch and lead Cloverdale’s new PJHL franchise.
With strong roots in the Cloverdale community and a shared vision for development, we are proud to support this exciting new chapter. With the support of staff such as Brien, Adam, and Royce, we are confident that this move will be able to assist in establishing Cloverdale as a competitive and acclaimed organization of the PJHL.
As official partners in the PJHL and as long-time supporters of growth across the league, the White Rock Whalers will work closely with the Cloverdale franchise in this upcoming season, including sharing key staff and player resources, to ensure the team has the foundation it needs for long-term success in the league. A strong start is critical for any new organization, and we are committed to helping Cloverdale thrive from day one.
“We’re not just wishing them well — we’re in their corner,” said Whalers' Managing Partner Chris McNally. “This is what league partnership looks like: shared vision, shared resources, and a shared goal of building sustainable, community-rooted junior hockey.” The Whalers organization understands the importance of supporting the league in ensuring its newest franchise gets off and running the right way from its inaugural season.
As we look ahead, we are excited about the opportunity to develop a competitive and respectful rivalry between the Cloverdale and White Rock franchises—one that will push both teams and hockey communities to new heights and contribute positively to the growth and spirit of the PJHL.
We thank Brien, Adam, and Royce for their outstanding contributions to the Whalers family, and we look forward to seeing them perform and succeed in Cloverdale this season and for many seasons to come.
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Whaler's new leadership group bring over 1,500 games of pro experience to the Pod.
As the White Rock Whalers continue to prepare for the upcoming 2025–26 Pacific Junior Hockey League (PJHL) season, the organization marks a significant leadership transition—one filled with gratitude and anticipation.
The Whalers extend their heartfelt thanks to Brien Gemmell, Adam Rossignol, and Royce Rossignol, who were instrumental to the team’s growth and success over the last two seasons. Their leadership, passion, and connection to the White Rock community have positively impacted our players and program. We are proud to support their move to coaching and leadership roles with the new Cloverdale PJHL franchise. We are confident that they will build something exceptional for a hockey community that once began with the Cloverdale Colts in the early 70s.
With change comes opportunity, and the Whalers are thrilled to announce three highly accomplished hockey professionals as our new hockey operations group:
David Rutherford, Head Coach and Director of Player Personnel
Anthony Ast, Associate Coach and Head Scout
Jim Vandermeer, Associate Coach
Together, this trio of individuals bring over 1,500 games of pro experience spanning from the NHL, AHL, WHL, ECHL, and top European leagues — plus championship pedigree and a wealth of leadership. Their combined experiences and commitment to excellence will ensure the Whalers remain a premier competitive and development destination in the PJHL.
We look forward to continuing our support for the Cloverdale franchise as league partners. We are excited about this new chapter as the PJHL continues to evolve and expand, which will include developing an intense, healthy rivalry that elevates both clubs and the PJHL.
