For the first time in league history, a player has been granted exceptional status in the BCHL.
Eli McKamey, 15, has received early eligibility to play in the league and will do so for the Penticton Vees during the
Without exceptional status, the Cowichan Bay product wouldn’t have been allowed to play in the BCHL until
McKamey is considered a top prospect ahead of the 2027 NHL Draft.
The forward has spent the last three seasons playing for the Shawnigan Lake School in the Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL).
“I believe playing for the Penticton Vees is a great opportunity for development as a player and as a person,” said McKamey. “Playing in the BCHL allows me to keep my future options open, while still playing in a highly competitive league. I’m excited for the challenge.”
The exceptional status framework is designed to give early eligibility to players “who possess exceptional traits in hockey and athletic acumen, mental and physical maturity, work ethic and education,” the BCHL said in a press release.
“This is an exciting moment for the BCHL and obviously our organization,” said Fred Harbinson, the Vees’ president, general manager and head coach.
“Eli McKamey is an exceptional talent who was rated as the No. 1 forward for the past WHL draft. Eli will be the next young elite player to wear a Vees jersey with the hope of winning a championship in Penticton en route to college and the NHL.”
The BCHL Board of Governors in January voted in favour of adding an exceptional status application process.