After one successful year in the BCHL, West Kelowna Warriors defenceman Lucas Bahn is heading south again as he has committed to the University of Alabama-Huntsville next season, located only a couple of hours away from his hometown of Hendersonville, Tenn.
The 19-year-old saw his offensive game grow in West Kelowna this year, putting up three goals and 17 assists while playing all 58 regular-season games, a huge increase compared to his one season in the USHL last year where he totaled six assists in 46 games split between the Sioux City Musketeers and the Des Moines Buccaneers.
“It was an awesome experience getting to play in West Kelowna for a year,” said Bahn in a release from the Warriors. “I met so many great people and learned so much throughout the year. It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made and I’m so thankful for the life experience.”
“Lucas is now able to play close to home in front of family and friends and I know he’s excited about that,” added West Kelowna head coach and general manager Brandon West. “UAH was looking for a right-shot defender that could step in and contribute at both ends of the rink. I believe it’s a great fit for both sides. We will certainly miss him next season.”
Alabama-Huntsville is a Division I NCAA program playing in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA), competing against Alaska-Anchorage, Alaska-Fairbanks, Bemidji State, Bowling Green, Ferris State, Lake Superior State, Michigan Tech, Minnesota State and Northern Michigan.
The 2018-19 Chargers squad featured a handful of former BCHL players, including Cowichan Valley Capitals alum Simon Chen, Penticton Vees grad Ben Allen, former Victoria Grizzlies defenceman Dayne Finnson, Chilliwack Chiefs alum Mark Sinclair and Alberni Valley Bulldogs grad and Chargers’ captain Kurt Gosselin.
Joining Bahn next year at Alabama-Huntsville are Langley Rivermen forward Daneel Lategan, Prince George Spruce Kings defenceman Max Coyle and Vernon Vipers forward Josh Latta.
