Young Calgary defenceman puts pen to paper with Giants

Vancouver Giants, a WHL team well respected for its scholarship program, signed its third player from the 2023 draft class.

Young Calgary defenceman Braydon Riggall signed a WHL scholarship and development agreement June 14.

He was initially selected 58th overall in the third round by the Langley-based major junior hockey team back in mid-May – during the 2023 prospect draft, explained Giants general manager Barclay Parneta.

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“The scouting staff watched and tracked Braydon’s growth, and they were continually impressed with his progress and impact in the games. He adds to the rush and has a knack for getting pucks to the net,” Parneta said.

Riggall, a six-foot defenceman, scored 18 goals and added 17 assists with Calgary Northstars U15 AAA this season.

“I’ve talked to the Giants staff members and I’m excited to join such a great organization and a great team,” Riggall said. “I love being on a team that’s super competitive and I think the Giants will be a good suit for me and my family.”

Riggall was also called up to play for the Calgary Northstars U17 AAA, adding a goal for the team in 2 games. He also took part in Team Alberta Green winning the 2023 Alberta Cup, where he racked up 3 points in 5 games.

“We look forward to watching him develop into a strong defenceman with offensive abilities as he moves forward,” Parneta added.

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Even though it is off season for the Vancouver Giants, there’s a lot happening behind the season.

For instance, the Giants are currently recruiting billets in the South Delta region ahead of the upcoming season. While the Giants play all their home games at Langley Events Centre, they practise in Ladner/Tsawwassen area.

“Have you ever thought about welcoming a Vancouver Giant into your home?” asked billet coordinator Andrea Dewolff.

“Simply put: The billet-player relationship is one of the most special parts of the junior hockey experience. Our players come from Western Canada, the United States and Europe and in order to make the very most of their experience, we want to ensure that they are placed into welcoming, comfortable homes,” she said, noting the players range in age from 15 to 20 years old.

Billets are needed to provide food, shelter, and a “home away from home” for the players, Dewolff said, noting all billet families receive season tickets to Giants games and will also receive a monthly stipend to assist with the costs of food and other living expenses.

Any billet inquires can also be submitted via email to Andrea Dewolff at adewolff@vancouvergiants.com.

The Vancouver Giants Hockey Club is currently recruiting Billet families in the South Delta area for the upcoming 2023-24 season.

For more info: https://t.co/xurqRTlNtd pic.twitter.com/Y6HYuWOa2g

— Vancouver Giants (@WHLGiants) June 13, 2023

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