Coyotes’ Park set to play for BCIHL’s Lakers next season

Osoyoos Coyotes forward Zach Park has committed to play for the Okanagan Lakers in the B.C. Intercollegiate Hockey League next season.

Park, 21, spent three seasons in the KIJHL, beginning with the Beaver Valley Nitehawks before joining the Coyotes. The Fruitvale, B.C. product had 15 goals and 29 points in 26 games for the Coyotes this season. Over his career, Park had 36 goals and 75 points in 92 career games. He added 13 points in 28 KIJHL Teck Cup championship games.

Park looks forward to playing for the Lakers next season and credits the Coyotes for his development.

“Playing in Osoyoos was a great experience. I had the pleasure of playing for some great coaches who all have helped me improve in different ways,” he said. “I would like to thank them and all the dedicated people in the organization that make it so great to be a Coyote.” 

Coyotes Head Coach-GM Ken Law said Park attracted a few college programs before choosing the Lakers.

“The Lakers are not only getting a very dedicated, skilled forward with a real knack for scoring big time goals, he will bring a complete game as he prides himself as a guy that can be trusted defensively and will never put himself above the team,” said Law. “At times he would take it upon himself to control the outcome of a tight game by turning up his speed and completely dominating. The Lakers are getting a quality young man.”

Park is the second Coyote to commit to the Lakers, joining Coletyn Boyarski.