Aviators acquire four young forwards to bolster roster
The Elmira Aviators have acquired four forwards from across the North American Hockey League to improve their roster for now and in future seasons.
The Aviators picked up Luke Sakala, Thomas Weekes and Charlie Vincent from fellow East Division sides. Sakala and Weekes join Elmira after playing for the Johnstown Tomahawks. Charlie Vincent previously laced them up for the New Hampshire Mountain Kings.
Elmira also received Ty Gordon from the El Paso Rhinos.
All four forwards have one thing in common, they all have at least one more year of NAHL eligibility after this season. Gordon and Weekes have two more years of eligibility after this campaign.
Luke Sakala looks forward to the prospect of a new journey beginning with the Aviators.
“I’m really excited to be here,” Sakala said. “I’m excited to make new friends and play more games.”
Sakala has played in 18 contests for the Tomahawks this season.
The Aviators weren’t only thinking about their future with these acquisitions though. All four players have skills they’re ready to put on display right now. Charlie Vincent hopes to help build a winning mindset in Elmira.
“I’m excited to help the group find a winning culture,” Vincent said. “Like we’re still in the mix, only three games out (of a playoff spot).”
Vincent likes making his presence felt on the ice with his 6-foot-3-inch frame. He’s tallied two goals and three assists across 20 games played this season.
All four new forwards have individual and team goals they hope to achieve this season and beyond. Thomas Weekes is keeping it all in perspective.
“Not many people get to play junior hockey at this level,” Weekes said. “So just take it day by day and see that it’s such a big deal and obviously to get to college.”
Weekes played nine games and compiled three points as a member of the Tomahawks this season.
This weekend the Aviators will take their bolstered roster to New Hampshire where they’ll take on the Mountain Kings. Game 1 is Friday, Jan. 17 at 7:20 p.m. and Game 2 is Saturday, Jan. 18 at 4:30 p.m.
The games can be streamed on NATV and listened to on Big Foot Country Legends.
Despite just arriving, Vincent sees an Aviator team ready to take the next step.
“I think you know, just from being here this week, I think we have a group that has a lot of potential and I’m just excited to get to work and win some games,” Vincent said.
Mac Young is the play-by-play voice of the Elmira Aviators. To contact him email [email protected].