The Castlegar Rebels have signed local product Tanner Costa.
Cousin of Rebels young phenom Brandon Costa, Tanner last played for the Major Midget Kootenay Ice where he amassed 24 points in 36 games, while playing a style that blends a strong polished skill-set with grit and passion.
In addition, Tanner had a brief stint with the Nelson Leafs.
“I am happy to be able to play for the Castlegar Rebels for the upcoming season. I am excited to be able to play with such a good group of guys, and a coach that is passionate for the game,” said Costa on his signing.
General Manager/Head Coach Bill Rotheisler commented: “We are extremely pleased to bring Tanner into our organization. Tanner fits the mould of the type of quality two-way player we are looking for. He has a tremendous skillet, but does not rely on it. It truly is invaluable to have someone representing you, that at such a young age recognizes the importance of supporting that offensive skill-set with work ethic, defensive accountability and overall hard to play against ability.”
In other news, the Rebels have moved 20-year-old forward Kyle Bergh — deadline acquisition last season from Creston — to the Princeton Posse. The move brings Kyle Bergh back to the original team he signed with prior to the 2014-15 season.
The Rebels are faced with the need to shed 1997 born players down to the league maximum of five. In the deal, the Rebels reacquired a variety of future considerations and assets previously sent.
“It’s not always about keeping the best players, as it is about keeping the right ones. Kyle is a great player who has an opportunity to be utilized to his full potential in Princeton. We felt that with our deep assets up front that reacquiring certain pieces and redistributing our depth was a reality and became our priority,” said Rotheisler.