Ben Edwards of the Grand Forks Border Bruins has joined his brother Alex to play for the WHL’s Victoria Royals for the 2023-24 season.
Ben had 19 points in 34 games for the Border Bruins last season and played on the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League Prospects team for the BCHC Top Prospects game. The Grand Forks product played 68 regular season games in the KIJHL, the first half of his career with the Kelowna Chiefs, and collected 34 points. He played in nine KIJHL Teck Cup playoff games registering one goal.
“It’s a great opportunity, but to have my brother here is also amazing,” said Ben. “We played together for our first year in the KIJHL with Kelowna. It’s a great opportunity to play with him and get to this level.”
He credited David Hnatiuk’s coaching staff for the work they did pushing players to improve. Ben said his skating, passing and physical play is better because of the work put in last season.
“The KIJHL is a physical league. It got me ready for the next level,” he said.
“We are thrilled that Ben has made the jump to the WHL and excited for him and his brother Alex to be able to suit up together with the Royals this season,” said Hnatiuk. “It was a pleasure to coach Ben, play a part in his development and we will be cheering for Benny and Alex from Grand Forks.”
On the Royals website announcing the signing, the Royals said that the 18-year-old brings size and intensity in his game which was evident throughout the Royals 2023 training camp. Edwards, who played defence for the Border Bruins, is listed as a forward on the Royals website.
“Ben plays a competitive, physical game and he will be a good addition to our lineup” said Royals Associate General Manager, Jake Heisinger.
