BROOKS, AB (MARCH 4, 2023) – The Brooks Bandits of the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL) are thrilled to announce 2007-born defenceman Jack Kachkowski has signed with the team beginning in the 2023-24 season.
Kachkowski, 16, currently plays for the St. Albert U18 AAA Raiders in the Alberta Elite Hockey League (AEHL), scoring 18 points (5g, 13a) through 33 games. The defenceman also represented Team Alberta at the 2023 Canada Winter Games in Prince Edward Island.
“I’m so excited to join the Brooks Bandits next season. I chose Brooks because it’s a great program that consistently develops high-end players,” he said.
“I really connected with Head Coach Papaioannou and felt that the team had a very positive culture and is getting players ready for that next level. I also think the style of play in Brooks is similar to my style. I am looking forward to joining the team.”
The St. Albert product is committed to Nebraska-Omaha (NCAA Division I), who compete in the National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC), who’s alumni include former Bandits blueliner Brandon Scanlin.
“Jack is an outstanding young defenceman that plays a solid two-way game and has the ability to impact our lineup next season as a 16 year-old,” said Papaioannou.
“His recent play with Team Alberta along with his NCAA commitment to Nebraska-Omaha are tremendous accomplishments for a young player. Jack is a leader among his peers and will fit in well next season with older players. We are excited to watch Jack’s U18 Playoff season with the St. Albert Raiders and wish them a long run.”
Kachkowski and the Raiders, who finished 1st in the AEHL North Division, began their playoffs on March 2nd vs Lloydminster, winning 4-3 in overtime. Kachkowski had two assists.
The Bandits conclude the 2022-23 Regular Season on Sunday, March 5th, when they visit the Olds Grizzlys. Game time is 4:00 pm, with live coverage on Real Country 105.7 FM.