With little time remaining in the BCHL pod season players are working to impress coaches at the next level or solidify spots on the Clippers roster. (Gary Dorland)

By Dan Marshall

Longterm Vision

VIDEO: Clippers looking big picture as pod season approaches conclusion

May 4, 2021 | 7:03 PM

NANAIMO – Victories have been elusive for the Clippers in the back half of their pod season.

In four games between April 28 and May 3 the team had one win, a 3-2 overtime triumph over the Alberni Valley Bulldogs.

Mathematically the club cannot win first place in the division and the BCHL has confirmed there will be no playoffs in 2021.

For the players this time is an opportunity to solidify their hockey futures.

Associate coach Colin Birkas said the Nanaimo coaches have committed to finding their six 2000 born players places to play for next season.

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“On our off days we’re making calls trying to place them. At least they have a stage to play on and also a coaching staff working to facilitate for them.”

Captain Trevor LeDonne secured a spot with the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota and Nolan Hutcheson will attend Queen’s University.

Jordan Naylor, Liam Ryan, Baxter Anderson and Thomas Maia are hopeful these games will open doors for them as well.

Tristan Fraser is a player with another year of junior eligibility left.

He’s been Nanaimo’s top scoring forward during the pod season which has drawn the attention of NCAA Division 1 schools.

“There’s been talks with a couple of schools lately. That’s the goal for me, to get a scholarship either this year or my final year next year.”

For 17-year-old rookie Brendan Carlson the objective is to solidify a roster spot with his hometown team.

He’s seen his minutes go up steadily over the course of the season.

“Once you start getting those minutes it’s confidence boosting knowing you’ve got the coaches trust. It’s helping me to be myself and be able to make more plays on the ice.”

The Clippers have four games remaining to achieve their team and personal objectives including May 5 against Victoria, May 7 and 8 versus Cowichan Valley and the season finale May 11 against Alberni Valley.

CLIP NOTES:

The Clippers go into their final four games of the season tied for third place with Cowichan Valley. Head to head games May 7 and 8 will likely determine who finish third in the Island Pod.

Trevor LeDonne is the only BCHL defenseman to lead his team in points. The Clipper captain had 13 points through 16 games.

Thomas Maia was runner up for BCHL Player of the Week. He had five points in a three game point streak from April 28 to May 1.

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dan@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @danmarshall77