The Surrey Eagles are excited to announce the commitment of 2001-born forward Kenny Riddett to the team for the upcoming 2019-20 BCHL season. Riddett joins the Eagles from the North Jersey Avalanche AAA hockey program.
Riddett, who hails from Fishkill, New York, finished the year among the top scorers on his team, totalling 18 goals and 42 points in 47 games this past season. He is described by Eagles head coach and associate general manager Cam Keith as a speedy forward with game-breaking offensive ability.
Speaking in an interview with SurreyEagles.ca, Riddett noted the emphasis that the Avalanche coaches place on the defensive side of the game – which helped him develop into a responsible two-way player.
“I’m defensively minded first. The Avalanche program is known for having very good offence, but we focus on defence first – it’s a really strong point. The BCHL is very fast-paced and skilled, and I think a lot of Avalanche players are used to playing that way.”
Current Eagles Corey Clifton and Cole Edgerton both played for the Avalanche as well, and have given Riddett information about the BCHL. This close connection to the league and many of its current players made his decision to come to Surrey an easy one.
“I talked to Cole. I asked him about Surrey and he said he loves it there. He said the area is beautiful and the team was very welcoming when he came in. I’m very excited to see it for myself. Personally I can’t wait to play on the Olympic ice surface. It will give me more room to use my speed and use my vision so I can make plays for my teammates. I’m very excited about that.”
Although his specific role on the team wasn’t discussed, he is very confident that he will be able to find his way into coach Keith’s offensive structure. Despite his smaller stature, he made it clear that he doesn’t let it affect his aggressive playing style.
“I won’t back down from anybody,” Riddett said with confidence. “Martin St.Louis has always been a big influence for me. I’ve always looked up to him.”
If he can bring some of that Marty St. Louis style of play to the Eagles, it’s easy to see him becoming a fan favourite at South Surrey Arena.
More importantly for Riddett, like most other BCHLers, coming to Surrey is about taking the next step towards achieving his goal of reaching the NCAA.
“Playing college hockey is the ultimate goal for a lot of guys, including myself. My dream is to get an education while playing hockey. I think there’s nothing better than that.”
