The Simon Fraser men’s hockey program had a couple of key spots to fill in its forward group and feel they’ve addressed that in a big way with the commitment of Coquitlam Express product Cam Bertsch.
The Cloverdale, B.C. native saw injuries limit him to just 23 games last year with the Express but he is expected to have a bounce back season and contribute right away for SFU.
“His speed and offensive ability will be an asset for us, and he’ll fit into our system very well,” said SFU head coach Mark Coletta, who has emphasized character and integrity as key assets in his recent recruiting efforts. “Cam is a great kid, and we put a premium on bringing in players like him because that’s the best way to build a championship team.”
His former coach Barry Wolff feels he’ll be a great addition to the team because of his skill set and hockey smarts.
“He’s got a great release and is great at finding open ice to make plays,” said Wolff, who is also big on Bertsch’s intangibles. “He’s a really great guy off the ice, he’s a leader, and despite the injuries he faced last season, he did everything he could to be there for his teammates all year long.”
Bertsch describes himself as a “two-way forward with a high compete level.” He’ll bring that style to the SFU program which competes in the BC Intercollegiate Hockey League along with Trinity Western University, the University of Victoria, Eastern Washington University and Selkirk College.
Last season, SFU featured BCHL alums Lyndon Stanwood, Sam Chatterley, Dustin Cave, Mak Barden, Jaret Babych, Scott Patterson, Mitch Crisanti, Brendan Lamont and Matthew Berry-Lamontagna.
