Kamloops Blazers sign a pair of 2017 draft picks

The Kamloops Blazers have signed a pair of 2017 seventh round draft picks in 15-year-olds Ethan Brandwood and Riley Ginnell

Brandwood was selected by the Blazers in the seventh round, 146th overall in the 2017 WHL Bantam Draft. The 6’1” and 165lb defenseman is from Victoria, BC.

“Ethan had a strong rookie and main camp with our hockey club,” commented Director of Player Personnel, Matt Recchi. “We saw continued improvement from him throughout last season and look forward to monitor his development this upcoming year.”

Brandwood is expected to play with the South Island Royals of the B.C. Major Midget Hockey League.

Ginnell, who stands at 6’1” and 155lbs, was selected by the Blazers in five picks after Brandwood 151st overall in the 2017 WHL Bantam Draft.

The Calgary native, who doesn’t turn 15 until October 9th, had 12 goals, 15 assists and 27 points in 36 games with the Calgary Royals Bantam AAA team during the 2016-17 season.

“Riley has a lot of hockey pedigree,” said Recchi. “He showed great improvement throughout camp and earned the opportunity for a contract. We look forward to watching him grow and develop his game.”

Ginnell’s family has a lot of roots in the WHL. His grandfather Pat Ginnell played and coached in the WHL. His father Erin played two seasons in the WHL and his brother Brad currently plays with the Portland Winterhawks.

Brandwood and Ginnell join fellow 2017 draft picks Josh Pillar, Dylan Garand and Trevor Thurston in signing with the Blazers