Langley Rivermen Kick Off Season with 5-2 Preseason Victory

The Langley Rivermen opened their new season with a strong performance, defeating the Coquitlam team 5-2 in a preseason exhibition match on September 3, 2023. The Rivermen demonstrated their offensive prowess, outshooting their opponents 37-29. Forward Shane Purves stood out, scoring two goals and earning the title of first star of the game.

New head coach and general manager Brad Rihela, who joined the team in July, expressed his satisfaction with the team’s early performance. “I think it’s always something where you’re looking at angles to try to make your team better,” Rihela said in an interview with the Langley Advance Times. He added, “but in the same respect, we’re thrilled with some of the contributions we’ve seen so far, and we’re excited to get going here.”

Having previously served as associate coach and general manager for the Chilliwack Chiefs, Rihela brings valuable experience to the Rivermen. He noted that he is familiar with many of the players and their playing styles. “Having coached against the Rivermen last year, I think there’s definitely some adjustments that we felt we needed to make both on and off the ice,” he remarked. “But at the end of the day, we’ve been focused on having a really good camp, executing a strong start to the season, and everything we do is geared towards building that positive momentum.”

Rihela emphasized his commitment to developing a “hard-working” team that will challenge opponents throughout the season. “We have some real talented players that can put the puck in the net,” he stated. “We’re trying to do our best to put the best product we can on the ice, and definitely excited about the upcoming season and the opportunity ahead of us.”

The Rivermen’s roster features several local players, enhancing community ties. Notable names include forward Cale Colwell, who resides nearby, and Taylor Curtis, who joins his older brother Hunter Curtis on defense. Additionally, former Aldergrove Atoms player Marco Depedrina is part of this year’s lineup.

Looking ahead, the Rivermen are set to conclude their exhibition season with two home games at George Preston Arena on September 12 and September 13, both scheduled for 19:15. Their first regular season game will take place on September 19 in Powell River, followed by their home opener against Surrey on October 4 at 19:15.

As the Rivermen embark on this new season, fans and players alike are filled with anticipation for what lies ahead.