Beaver Sports
The Napanee Raiders have brought in a local to fortify their roster ahead of the upcoming Junior C hockey season, signing left-winger Reid Lambert.
The 17-year-old Selby native and NDSS student is a graduate of the Greater Kingston AAA program.
“Growing up playing hockey in Napanee, I had always styled my hockey after players on the team throughout the years,” Lambert said according to the Napanee Raiders team website. “To join the organization in my hometown feels great. I’m looking forward to filling the barn with a hometown crowd this year and bringing hockey back to life.”
Lambert describes himself as a player who gives his all at both ends of the rink and who always supports his teammates. He sees the step to the PJHL as a positive for his development.
“This year I hope to play with guys that have been at this level learning and having a great time in Napanee and to see where this path takes me,” he told the team’s website.
Raiders head coach Ben Hagerman is pleased with the signing.
“We are very fortunate to recruit Reid into the Napanee Raiders program,” Hagerman said according to the team website. “He is a hard-nosed winger that will be relentless on the forecheck. He will create space for himself and his teammates because of his never-quit attitude and physical play.”
Hagerman said Lambert also meets the high standard of character the club covets.
“Reid is a top-notch human being and he will evolve into a leader as he progresses into his junior career,” Hagerman added.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Lambert had eight goals, five assists and 52 minutes in penalties in 36 games for the Under-16 Gaels, while adding a pair of goals in playoff competition.
The Raiders will continue to announce returning veterans and new signings ahead of their 2021-2022 training camp, which opens Aug. 24. Interested prospects can register at www.napaneeraiders.ca.
Following the Province’s move to Stage 3 of its reopening plan Friday, the Raiders say they are confident they will be able to welcome fans to start the PJHL season Oct. 1. The six-team Tod Division is envisioning a schedule of at least 35 regular season games, plus a full playoff for the Schmalz Cup.