BROOKS, AB (June 28, 2023) – The Brooks Bandits of the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL) have signed 17-year-old goaltender Johnny Hicks.
Hicks (Kamloops, BC) spent the last two seasons with the Merritt Centennials of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL), starting 27 games during the 2022-23 season, recording an 8-10 record and a .917 save percentage, which was 7th best in the BCHL. He played the 2021-22 season as a 16-year-old, starting 24 games and playing over 1200 minutes.
The 2005-born netminder was named to the Team East roster for the BCHL’s Top Prospects Game this past season.
“I chose Brooks not only because I thought that it would be the best opportunity to win a championship, but also because I know it’s going to be the next best step in my development as a player, on and off the ice, moving forward,” said Hicks.
“I’ve only heard great things about the program, and it was hard to pass up an opportunity like this. I’m super excited to get going.”
He played for Delta Hockey Academy’s U17 Prep team in the Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL).
“Johnny’s an experienced goalie that gives us depth in goal. He’s faced a ton of work over the last two seasons and comes equipped with a strong mentality,” said Bandits Head Coach and GM, Ryan Papaioannou.
“Physically, he’s a quick goalie with great lateral movement. He comes to us highly recommended by many in-and-around the BCHL. When breaking his game down on video, we were truly impressed with his ability to compete at any score.”
The Bandits welcome Johnny and his family to Brooks.
2023-24 Bandits Season Tickets are on sale, visit brooksbandits.ca for more information.