The Simon Fraser University Men’s Ice Hockey team is pleased to announce that former Alberni Valley Bulldog and Soo Thunderbird Yan Kalashnikov has committed to join the team for the 2013/14 B.C. Intercollegiate Hockey League season.
Kalashnikov was born in Minsk, Belarus, and spent three seasons playing junior hockey in Canada as a forward. After 45 points in 39 games with the Grand Forks Border Bruins (KIJHL), the forward moved to Alberni Valley of the BCHL. Kalashnikov put up 35 points in 36 games with the Bulldogs, and had only 6 penalty minutes in that time.
He then split his final season between the Okotoks Oilers (AJHL), Nipawin Hawks (SJHL), and the Soo Thunderbirds (NOJHL). The forward put up 16 points in 24 games with Soo.
"Yan has great skill and offensive ability," says SFU Head Coach Mark Coletta. "He is a bright young kid and understands what a first class education means, he will be a player we think can succeed at this level."
"I'm very excited to be a part of SFU because I heard good things about how great the education is there. I also heard good things about the hockey program and coach Mark Coletta, so I can’t wait for September," says Kalashnikov.
"The most important thing to me is getting used to my schedule and the system. I haven’t attended university or college full-time so it’s going to be different."
The forward describes his play "like any European hockey player - good, fast, good hands, and play-making abilities. I can’t use my size to hit people hard but I do my best."
Kalashnikov is the 13th player to commit to SFU for the 2013/14 season.
Yan Kalashnikov Quick Stats: Age: 21
Position: F
Shoots: R
Height: 5-foot-10
Weight: 165 lbs
Hometown: Minsk, Belarus
Former Team: Soo Thunderbirds (NOJHL)
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