Osoyoos Coyote Jack Henderson is challenging himself to be ready for the B.C. Hockey League this season.
The Coyotes rookie has been signed by the Merritt Centennials, following a season of 10 goals and 31 points in 43 games.
“I feel the KIJHL helped me with the adjustment to junior A hockey, by having the opportunity to play alongside and against older players,” says Henderson, who did not play the previous season after breaking his femur a week before the season started.
Henderson, 18, from Quesnel has worked to improve his strength without sacrificing speed or quickness. He credits his trainer Chase Astorino, who helped him become a better hockey player and overall person everyday this summer.
He feels good about joining the Centennials because they are a long standing organization in the B.C. Hockey League and in a tight knit community.
“I feel Merritt is a good fit for me based on the culture and core values being built around the program,” he says. “There is also a lot of great young talent here and the future looks very promising with the guys we have. I’m very excited to do whatever I can do to help the team and make the most of this opportunity. Meanwhile doing my best to fulfill any role they need me to take on this season.”
Centennials assistant coach John Stuart adds that Henderson is willing to do whatever it takes to help the team.
“Jack is an extremely good teammate and overall person, he does everything the right way. His work ethic on and off the ice is at an elite level and he will do anything for his team and community,” says Stuart on the Centennials website. “Jack brings a ton of speed and energy on the ice along with his skill and shot. He is a dangerous offensive player, especially when using his speed to beat defenders wide. He also brings along with him physicality and grit which make him tough to play against.”
Henderson joins Coyotes teammate Blake Astorino on the Centennials.