There will be some new faces in the Port Moody Panthers lineup this year.
Cole Iantoro, Daniel Szpakowski, Stefano Centanni and Jovin Kaila, all from the Burnaby Winter Club's midget prep program, have committed to join the Cats when the Pacific Junior Hockey League season gets underway this fall.
"I'm really excited to play for the Panthers this season," said Iantoro, a forward who played his minor hockey in Coquitlam, in a press release. "The chance to play at this level in my local community and for a team that is focused on player development is amazing. I know this is an incredible opportunity to develop my game."
The new addition of Centanni and Kaila will also give the team some much needed help on the blue line.
Last year, the Cats had the second worst number of goals against in the league with 202, with only the North Delta Devils letting in more markers.
But the team also has high hopes that the two blue liners can contribute offensively.
Ron Johnson, the club's director of hockey development, said Kaila will add some scoring punch to the back end, while head coach Kevin Flather noted that Centanni will be expected to stabilize the power play.
As for Szpakowski, Johnson said he adds a good mix of size and skill.
"He is strong in the corners and in front of the net," Johnson said. "In addition, Daniel competes hard and has a great worth ethic and attitude."
With the new players, Port Moody hopes to move up in the PJHL standings. The club has struggled in recent years and missed the playoffs in the 2013-14 season.
For more information about the squad go to www.portmoodypanthers.com.
