The Salmon Arm SilverBacks Junior “A” Hockey Club is pleased to announce that Ashford McMaster will be heading to the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology in Calgary this fall to continue his hockey and education. SAIT is a member of the Alberta Colleges Athletics Conference.
The 20-year old McMaster was fourth in team scoring and finished the 2008/09 season with 53 points on 13 goals and 40 assists along with 70 penalty minutes. In 11 playoff games, Ashford added another seven points. At the end of the season, the 6′ 2″, 185 lbs right shot was voted the team’s most valuable defenseman.
Originally from Siksika, Alberta, McMaster was acquired in an offseason deal with the Victoria Grizzlies and played just one season in Salmon Arm.
“Ashford is one of the most complete players I’ve ever coached,” commented Head Coach/GM Rylan Ferster. “He is exceptional at both ends of the ice. His understanding of the game is excellent and he will be an impact player immediately at SAIT.”
“I want to wish Ashord all the best back in his home province,” said team owner Randy Williams. “I would like to thank him for everything he brought to the SilverBacks this past season. I will try my best to catch a SAIT game on my business trips back to Alberta.”
The entire SilverBacks organization would like to congratulate Ashford and his family on his accomplishment.
