Salmon Arm, B.C. – The Salmon Arm Silverbacks have signed Defenceman Tate O’Brien (’07) and Forward Antonio Bevacqua (’06).
O’Brien started the season in the KIJHL with the Quesnel River Rush where the Salmon Arm native put up 3 goals and 10 assists for 13 points in 24 games. In total, the blueliner played in 63 games in the KIJHL where he had 20 points.
“I am very excited to be a part of the Salmon Arm Silverbacks,” said O’Brien. “This is something I dreamed about as a kid, growing up in Salmon Arm and finally being able to play in my home town is pretty special to me. I think this will be a great opportunity for me and can’t wait to get rolling with the team.”
The 17-year-old has already suited up for two games with the Silverbacks this season.
“He’s a local kid that we feel can develop into a really good player for the program,” said Silverbacks GM and Head Coach, Tyler Shattock. “We’re excited to have Tate and look forward to helping in his development.”
Bevacqua joins the Silverbacks trying to continue his hot start to the year where the 18-year-old played in 27 games with the Olds Grizzlies of the AJHL and had 13 goals and 14 assists for 27 points.
“I’m very excited for the opportunity to play for the Salmon Arm Silverbacks and be part of this great organization,” said Bevacqua. “I’m looking forward to developing my game and to prepare myself for the next step in my career.”
The Langley product has played in six games over the past couple of season in the BCHL with the Surrey Eagles. He has suited up in 5 games for the Silverbacks so far with 1 goal and 1 assist.
“He was successful in the AJHL,” said Silverbacks GM and Head Coach, Tyler Shattock. “With us loosing a couple bodies over the Christmas break we think that he can fill a role for us and a guy that can play up and down our lineup.”
The Silverbacks would like to welcome Tate, Antonio, and their families to the organization!
