Wilkins Speaks, Jones Talks Championship

(Wilkins in the orange and black - Photo Randy Emery)

Matt Wilkins is a player I've heard a lot about over the last month. His name has been on the lips of a lot of Smoke Eaters fans as rumours of his commitment to Trail made the rounds. He was the top goal scorer (in terms of goals per game) in the KIJHL last season. The word from some folks I talked to that saw him at the spring camp is that he has tremendous skill. The 1991 born Kimberley native also has another huge key for success with the Smokies in the BCHL... the right attitude. I had a chance to chat with him tonight on Mountain FM's Overtime. Here's what he had to say about choosing Trail, his KIJHL success, making the jump to the BCHL and his connection to Scott Jacklin...

New Smoke Eater Matt Wilkins

Click here to download

I'm sure a lot of Smokies fans are hoping goal scoring additions like Wilkins and the natural development of last year's young talent could lead Trail to a BCHL Championship. Powell River was very close to getting it done so we know community owned teams can get there if they make the right moves. That being said, it was Montrose's Jones Twins and the Vernon Vipers who took home the Fred Page Cup. The Jones' topped the Vipers in playoff scoring (18 points each) and for the third straight season proved they had the ability to get the job done when the going gets tough. I talked to Connor Jones about the victory, the additions (like former Smoke Eater Cam Brodie) that put Vernon over the top, the Doyle Cup and more. Here's the former Nitehawk on Mountain FM's Overtime last night...

Vernon Forward Connor Jones

Click here to download

Congrats to the champs. I'm sure the Smokies will enjoy putting them to the test in 2009-2010.

I hope to see you all at AM Ford Fight Night tomorrow. Remember money from the concessions helps out the hockey club. Should be a great card too!