Western News Staff
The Penticton Vees have another hole to fill in their organization for the 2012-13 season. Athletic trainer and equipment manager Geoff Carter is stepping down to work with KineMedics.
According to its website, “KineMedics is dedicated to the improvement of physical performance of people” who need to manage and improve physical health in the areas of: sports medicine, post-operative care and recovery and occupational health and safety.
Having dealt with the company while working with the Vees, Carter was told of the position by the person leaving.
“He suggested that I apply because he liked my personality and felt that I would be a great fit,” said Carter, 34, who joked that he is considered old to be an athletic trainer in junior hockey.
“Geoff was not only a tireless worker but a great person and that is echoed by our staff and players,” said Vees coach-GM Fred Harbinson of the work Carter has done the last three years. “His experience and dedication to hockey showed in his work and will be difficult to replace. We wish him the best.”
“It has been a great three years with the Vees,” said Carter. “I’ve made some great friendships with the staff, players and within the community. My time in Penticton betters me for my next journey and I look forward to returning to the South Okanagan and watching as a fan.”
Carter said it was an extremely difficult decision to make and that the highlight of his time in Penticton was the Vees’ RBC Cup win. Carter said he recalled his interview with Harbinson at a Tim Horton’s in Calgary. Harbinson asked Carter what he wanted out of the position. When Carter responded by saying he wanted to win a national title, Harbinson smile and said, “let’s make that happen.”
“I am honoured to be part of it that’s fore sure,” said Carter.
Ice chips: In other Vees news, recruit Evan Anderson has committed to the Michigan Tech Huskies. During Hockey Canada’s annual general meeting it was announced that the Junior A pilot program for 2011-12 has been extended two years for further research, with the immediate addition of stronger regulations to reduce fighting and on-ice violence.