The Penticton Vees defeated the Nanaimo Clippers 8-2 in Game 4 of the Fred Page Cup Finals, completing the sweep of the championship series and earning the franchise’s 13th title.
The Vees dropped their playoff opener in Round 1, then reeled off 16 straight wins to win the championship.
Bradly Nadeau led the way in the deciding game with a hat trick and an assist for a four-point night, while his brother Josh had three points on a goal and two assists.
“It’s really special,” said Josh Nadeau about winning alongside his brother. “I’ve been hard on him all year since he’s my brother, but winning this thing together is amazing.”
Vees forward Luc Wilson, a Vancouver Island native, had three assists in the game and finished as the leading scorer in the BCHL Playoffs with 27 points in 17 games.
“It’s a surreal feeling to be able to do it in front of my friends and family here in Nanaimo,” said Wilson. “I can’t say enough about this team. I’m so happy we were able to get it done today.”
With Penticton captain Fin Williams out with an injury since early January, the team’s alternate captain Frank Djurasevic received the trophy from BCHL Commissioner Chris Hebb.
“Being able to step up and be our acting captain for the last half of the year was something I didn’t take lightly,” said Djurasevic. “I learned a lot from Fin since he was my captain. I tried to use the things he showed me and lead this team.”
For Vees president, head coach and general manager Fred Harbinson, this is his fifth Fred Page Cup since joining the team in 2007-08.
“This team was as complete of a team as I’ve had,” said Harbinson. “I’ve had some high-powered teams, but this one here, they were very mature. We lose our captain at Christmas time and that would have sent a lot of teams in the wrong direction. Top to bottom, they’re one of the top teams I’ve had.”
Penticton finished first overall in the regular season standings with a 43-8-1-2 record. They defeated the Trail Smoke Eaters, Prince George Spruce Kings and West Kelowna Warriors before prevailing in the final round against Nanaimo.
The Clippers swept their way through the Coastal Conference playoffs, defeating the Surrey Eagles, Chilliwack Chiefs and Langley Rivermen, going a perfect 12-0 before the championship series.
For the Vees, this is their fourth championship in the last 10 years, having previously won in 2017, 2015 and 2012.
