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WHL Victoria Royals

Royals Select Hudson Bjornson and Tyler McGowan in 2021 WHL U.S. Priority Draft

December 8, 2021 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Victoria Royals News Release


Victoria, B.C. - The Victoria Royals are proud to announce the team has selected Hudson Bjornson and Tyler McGowan in the 2021 WHL U.S. Priority Draft.

Hudson Bjornson

Using their first pick, ninth overall in the first round of the 2021 draft, the Royals selected 15-year-old Hudson Bjornson of the Phoenix Jr. Coyotes 15U AAA team of the Tier 1 Elite Hockey League (T1EHL). The 6'1" one-hundred- and fifty-four-pound defenceman has played in eight games with the Coyotes this season where he has earned three assists and ten penalty minutes so far.

"Hudson is a smooth skating two-way defender, who defends well and can join the rush and make himself an option offensively," said Ed Fowler, Director of Player Personnel. "He plays on his toes with good energy in the defensive zone, quick to lose pucks and able to make solid plays."

Tyler McGowan

In the second round, the Royals selected defenceman Tyler McGowan 36th overall. The 5'10" one-hundred- and seventy-four pound 15-year-old has spent the last three seasons developing with the Anaheim Jr. Ducks of the T1EHL. So far this season, McGowan has played in 28 games for the Ducks earning nine points with three goals and six assists along with 36 penalty minutes.

"Tyler is a hard-working defender with a solid frame that is willing to battle for his space. He uses his quick hands and feet to get the puck moving up ice quickly," Fowler said of Tyler's on ice performance.

The Royals will continue to add to their prospect list tomorrow with the 2021 WHL Prospects Draft beginning at 9AM PST.

Victoria is back at home on Saturday for the Inaugural Lighthouse Island Bowl against the Vancouver Giants. To purchase tickets to Saturday's game, visit the Victoria Royals ticketing page or call the Select Your Ticket box office at 250-220-7777.

The Royals are also offering two holiday ticket package for fans this season. Buy four vouchers for $70 or six for $100 and receive a special Royals gift. This offer is valid until December 31, 2021.

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Western Hockey League Stories from December 8, 2021


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