The Penticton Vees have acquired a goaltender from the Alberta Junior Hockey League after learning that one of their own netminders suffered a serious offseason injury.
Penticton added Henry “Hank” Levy from the Blackfalds Bulldogs in exchange for future considerations, the team announced Tuesday, Aug. 23.
The move comes in response to the news that Colin Purcell sustained an offseason injury, forcing him to step back from playing.
“Unfortunately, last week Colin Purcell was given medical advice to discontinue playing,” said Fred Harbinson, the Vees’ head coach, general manager and president.
Purcell was limited to just seven games in the crease last season due to a health issue, posting a 4-2-0-0 record.
Levy, meanwhile, split last season playing with B.C. Hockey League’s Wenatchee Wild and the North American Hockey League’s Minnesota Magicians. The 20-year-old goaltender from Salt Lake City, Utah appeared in 13 games with Minnesota during the 2021-2022 campaign.
“We are fortunate to add a quality goaltender so late into the offseason,” Harbinson commented. “Hank has a consistent track record of producing positive results and we look forward to having him join our program for his final season of junior hockey.”
Penticton also added 17-year-old Derek Sparks on Tuesday to be the team’s third goaltender. The Grand Prairie, Alta. product spent last season with the Okanagan Hockey Academy’s U17 Prep team.
The Vees kick off their BCHL title defence at home on Sept. 23 against the Trail Smoke Eaters.
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