The Prince George Spruce Kings of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) are pleased to announced that graduating defencemèn Brad Bourke and Zac Rasmussen have made commitments to continue their hockey and educational pursuits. Bourke has committed to attend the University of Alberta at Augustana and will be competing for the ACAC's Vikings for the 2010/11 season. Rasmussen has committed to attend Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops and will suit up for the British Columbia Intercollegiate Hockey League's WolfPack for the 2010/11 season.

Brad Bourke joined the Spruce Kings early in the 2009/10 campaign from the Merritt Centennials and quickly became an offensive threat on the Prince George blueline. The 21-year old scored seven times and finished with 36 points in 50 games with the club, bringing his BCHL totals to 13 goals and 59 points in 86 games played.

"I am very excited to add Brad to our line-up and, in particular, to our fine group of young defensemen," states Vikings Head Coach Blaine Gusdal. "He has good size, three years of Junior A experience, and a tremendous skill set that will benefit him and his contributions to the future of our program."

"Brad's skating ability and offensive skills will certainly add to our defense corps," comments Coach Gusdal. "Plus, he's a proven leader who has always been popular with his past teammates, so we expect he'll fit in very well with our group over the next 4 to 5 years."

Bourke plans on enrolling in the U of A - Augustana's Physical Education Program with future aspirations in physio-therapy or fire-fighting.

Zac Rasmussen recently concluded his most productive offensive season in the BCHL after scoring 25 goals and totaling 52 points in 54 games played. The 21-year old spent three seasons in the league, including two with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks. He completed his Junior A career with 51 goals and 46 assists in 166 games.

"Zac is a character kid who brings a nice combination of skill, toughness and leadership to our team," said WolfPack head coach Chris Hans. "I know what Zac brings to the rink everyday having coached him with the Major Midget Thompson Blazers in 2006-07 where he was our leading scorer and team captain. It's nice adding someone with Zac's Junior A experience and character to our club."

"This is a great opportunity for myself," said Rasmussen. "I had the chance to play away from home the past three years. Anytime you get a chance to come home and play in a great hockey town like Kamloops, it's a good thing."

The Prince George Spruce Kings would like to congratulate both grads and wish them continued success in their educational and hockey pursuits.