Payton McDonald-Corea of the Osoyoos Coyotes has signed to play for the Grande Prairie Storm in the Alberta Junior Hockey League for the 2022-23 season.
McDonald-Corea, 19, spent a season in the KIJHL with the Coyotes, putting up 10 goals and 38 points in 36 games. He added nine assists in 11 Teck Cup playoff games, then joined the BCHL’s Penticton Vees as an affiliate player during their BCHL championship run. Prior to joining the Coyotes, the 5-9, 165-pound defenceman spent two seasons in the AJHL with the Olds Grizzlys, playing in 41 games and collecting five points.
“I’m glad to get back to the Junior A level,” said McDonald-Corea. “It just shows hard work pays off. Osoyoos was a great stepping stone for me and it helped me work on my game and they got the best out of me. I was able to play in all situations.”
Coyotes Head Coach Carter Rigby said it’s “great to see PMC get another shot at the Junior A ranks.”
“He came in and worked hard, dominating in all roles and every area of the ice,” said Rigby. “He deserves to be playing Junior A and coming to Osoyoos let him grab his confidence back and show he’s a good player. Having the season with the Coyotes as well as helping the Penticton Vees win a BCHL championship showed teams he deserved another look. Congrats Payton, and wish you all the best.”
