Triple honour for Vanichuk as Thunder present team awards

Austin Vanichuk’s stellar season did not go unnoticed.

The Langley Thunder forward was the recipient of three separate honours as the Junior A lacrosse team recognized its award winners following the conclusion of their BC Junior A Lacrosse League season.

Joining Vanichuk as an award recipient were Brayden Bushnoe, Temeke7 Gottfriedsen, Nathaniel Leroux and Brayden Wandler.

Austin Vanichuk: Most Valuable Player, Top Offensive Player and Top Rookie

In his first season of junior lacrosse, the left-handed forward from Langley took home three individual honours after leading the team with 32 assists and 47 points. His 15 goals also ranked second on the team while he was tops on the Thunder with six power-play goals.

“Austin possesses a great shot and quick feet and had an impressive season for us. Even as a rookie, he was relied on in all offensive situations and we look forward to watching him develop over his next four seasons of junior lacrosse. Winning all three of these awards is a testament to his work ethic and natural ability. As Austin grows and matures, we believe these achievements are just the beginning of what he can accomplish.”

Brayden Bushnoe: Most Improved Player

Bushnoe joined the Thunder from South Carolina who had never played box lacrosse prior to this season. He was the only Thunder player to suit up in all 18 games and was the team’s primary face-off specialist, holding his own against the rest of the league by winning 97 of 190 face-off-offs, a .511 winning percentage. Bushnoe also contributed offensively with nine goals and 23 points.

“When Brayden joined us, it was his shooting and ability to take defenders on one-on-one which really stood out. But as the season progressed, his stick became quicker, his knowledge of the box game grew and he became one of our more effective passers with his vision to see the play develop.”

Temeke7 Gottfriedsen: Top Defensive Player

The 20-year-old (who has one year of junior remaining) from Kamloops, played in a dozen games for Langley this past season, scoring four goals and was the team’s most reliable defender.

“Temeke7 is one of our hardest-working defenders. His tenacity and grit is unparalleled and it is this effort that gets him opportunities to push the ball up the floor in transition.”

Nathaniel Leroux: Unsung Hero

This was Leroux’s first season with Langley after being acquired by trade and the right-handed forward from Chilliwack finished with nine goals and 27 points in 16 games.

“His work ethic inside is something that is often overlooked as an offensive player. He does a fantastic job at constantly moving on the offensive side and finding space by going to tightly contested spots where others may shy away from.”

Brayden Wandler: Top Graduating Player

Wandler was drafted by the Thunder and was traded at this year’s deadline to Burnaby. His save percentage steadily improved in each of his four seasons with Langley going from .753 in his first season to .813 in 2024.

“Brayden was an integral part of our organization for the past five years. An excellent goalie who established himself as one of the top at his position in the BCJALL.”

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