Surrey, B.C. – The Surrey Eagles are proud to announce the commitment of 16-year-old forward and White Rock native Grayden Slipec (05) to the team for the 2021-22 BCHL season. Grayden will begin his junior hockey career on a team with his brother Jacob, who finishes his junior career this upcoming season with Surrey.
Grayden decided to come to Surrey after only getting the opportunity to play 4 games with the Burnaby Winter Club in the CSSHL U18 league, putting up 2 goals and 5 points in those games. Looking back to Slipec’s last full season as a 14-year-old, he put up 26 goals and 73 points in just 30 games while playing with NHL prospect Connor Bedard with West Vancouver Academy Bantam Prep, a part of the CSSHL U15 league. Grayden’s skill is already noticeable, and he’ll get ready to soar in his rookie season next year.
For Grayden, there were multiple factors in starting his career in his hometown. “I’ve skated with Cam Keith before and I really like him. Obviously, my brother’s playing here so that made this decision much easier, being able to play in front of the family.” When asked about playing at home further, Grayden expanded on what it means to him. “It’s going to be really cool to try and win a championship with Surrey. It’ll be nice to play in front of friends and family often throughout the year.”
For Eagles fans who haven’t had the opportunity to see Grayden on the ice yet, he gave a quick scouting report on himself for the fans. “Hopefully I bring excitement every time I step on the ice. I can make plays, and I’m expecting both my brother and I will play well to score some goals for the team.”
It’s also an exciting time for brother Jacob, who’s going to finish his junior career with his brother alongside him, a first for both of them. When asked about what it means to him, he was pretty excited to share his final season with his younger brother. “It’s pretty special, I’ve grown up with him and trained with him in the summers. This will be the first time we get to play on a team together so it’ll be really special not just for us playing, but for our family as well.”
Finally, Eagles head coach Cam Keith wasn’t shy of his praise towards the 16-year-old White Rock native. Cam gave Grayden a glowing review of what’s to come next season from the youngest Surrey Eagle. “Something amazing every night. He has the potential to be the best local player who has ever worn a Surrey Eagle jersey. I’m very excited for his family and the local fans to be able to watch a special kid like this play every night. He’s an NHL prospect right now, and it’s going to be a fun ride!”
Welcome to the flock Grayden!
