His Chilliwack Chiefs are away for Christmas, but there’s been no rest for Jason Tatarnic.
The Chiefs head coach and general manager executed a flurry of roster moves late last week, starting with the acquisition of a player with major junior experience.
Ben Fanjoy is a lanky centre who stands six-foot-two and weights 190 pounds.
He’s spent parts of the last four seasons with the Ontario Hockey League’s Ottawa 67’s.
In 24 games this season the forward collected five goals and nine points.
But the most important thing about Fanjoy is his birth certificate. He’s 19 years old and eligible to return to the Chiefs next year as they build for the 2018 RBC Cup.
Tatarnic said Fanjoy will join the team right after the Christmas break.
“He is a skilled centre who competes in every zone and doesn’t shy away from the dirty areas or battles for possession,” Tatarnic said. “With the puck, he’s an offensive threat as both playmaker and finisher.”
“We are really excited to add Ben to our team as he makes us better and we feel this is an important piece for us down the stretch.”
Tatarnic got another piece of good news as Anthony Vincent may be ready to return soon.
The speedster was injured during an Oct. 23 game and hasn’t been seen since.
The Quebec native has missed the last 18 games but he is coming off of injured reserve.
Vincent collected just two goals and three assists in 17 games before his injury, but he was looking like a dangerous player with a lot of upside before he went down.
As players come in players must also go out and Tatarnic made three corresponding moves.
Derek Osik was released after just 15 games as a Chiefs, ending his brief tenure with four goals and five points.
Josh Borynec requested a trade back to his home province of Alberta, and Tatarnic granted it, but the details of that deal won’t be released until after the Jan. 1 roster freeze is lifted.
And in the most surprising departure, young defenceman Austin Chorney has been moved to Salmon Arm for future considerations.
The 16 year old was a ballyhooed signing of the Chiefs in the summer but playing time was an issue for the rookie.
Chorney played 25 games, collecting one goal and eight assists.
“Basically Austin and his family felt this wasn’t the best spot for him this season and requested a change,” Tatarnic explained. “Austin wanted more ice time so both parties felt it would be in their best interests to move his playing rights to Salmon Arm.”
The moves leave Tatarnic with one space on the roster and he plans to use it.
“With the Jan. 10 trade deadline approaching we will look to see what’s available and what the best fit is for our team,” Tatarnic said. “With that being said, the best-case scenario would be adding player that will be with us this season and next season. We will look at every option there is.”
See bchl.ca for more info.