Soke Making Impact

During the draft last month, a few Southern Hockey League observers viewed the players selected list and pointed directly toward the defending champion Grand Lake Thrashers.

The Thrashers had nabbed forward Craig Soke with their first pick. Those following the circuit said immediately the Thrashers had just selected the SHL's best player.So far, Soke isn't disappointing Grand Lake, its fans or the SHL.  

The forward from Saskatchewan has 11 goals and five assists for 16 points to post a share of the lead in league scoring. That's in three games played. He's averaging over five points an outing for the unbeaten Thrashers and has come as advertised.  Soke, who spent four seasons as a mainstay with the University of New Brunswick Varsity Reds before playing two years in the Central Hockey League where he posted 75 points with the Shreveport Mudbugs, certainly has help with high-flying Grand Lake.

Former UNB teammate Kyle Werner also has 16 points on the young campaign. In fact, former pro Brad Englehart sits third in the circuit with 15 points making that trio a serious formidable group of forwards as Grand Lake chases its second straight title.

Meanwile, the Black's Harbour Silverkings are making noise, too, fighting for headline recognition with Grand Lake.  Forward Drew Power has eight goals for Black's Harbour and veteran playmaker Robbie George isn't slowing down, earning 11 assists.