West Kelowna Warriors forward David Pope (94) was drafted 109th overall in the 4th Round of the NHL Draft by the Detroit Red Wings.
Pope was originally ranked 67th for North American forwards, and becomes the third Warrior in 7 years of existence to be drafted to the NHL.
Other Warriors drafted are Edmonton Oiler Justin Schultz, and Cam Reid who was drafted by the Nashville Predators (currently playing for the Milwaukee Admirals of the AHL).
“It really is a dream come true,” says Pope. “Detroit was my favorite team growing up, and (Pavel) Datsyuk is my favorite player. When you get drafted by a team like Detroit that really means a lot. I know I have to work hard, and hopefully become the player they envision me becoming.”
Pope, a dominating forward at 6’3 and 195lbs, returns for his third season with the Warriors this fall, and he already has a scholarship secured to Nebraska-Omaha for 2014-15.
David notched 17 goals, and 22 assists on 42 games with West Kelowna last year.
The West Kelowna Warriors are also pleased to announce that former defenseman Ben Betker (94), who now plays for the Everett Silvertips of the WHL, was also drafted.
The Edmonton Oilers selected the 6-foot-5 towering defenseman with the 158th pick in the 6th Round.
“It was a real exciting day,” added Betker. “I’m looking forward to going to Oil Country. It's still a long road ahead but it's a marathon not a sprint, and I'm looking forward to the challenge ahead.”
Betker is being flown into Edmonton this week to meet with Oilers brass.
In 59 games with the Warriors in 2011-12 Ben had 5 goals, 13 assists, and 52 penalty minutes.
The Warriors wish to congratulate Ben and David on being drafted into the NHL!
