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Vipers give Jags the ‘C’

Four-year veteran Jagger Williamson has been appointed captain of the Vernon Vipers.
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They affectionately call him Jags.

The four-year veteran is a consummate leader and has been officially named captain of the Vernon Vipers.

The Michigan Tech Huskies commit is a game shy of 150 in the B.C. Hockey League and is coming off a career high 37-point season. He wore an ‘A’ last season and was a key contributor to the leadership of the team alongside captain Riley Brandt. Williamson, a Lumby product who played Midget Rep in Vernon, is the first local captain of the team since Dave Robinson in 2010-2011.

Joining Williamson as alternates will be Jimmy Lambert, Shane Kelly and Jesse Lansdell.

Williamson is high on the appointed leadership group while saying several other older players are leaders despite not having a letter.

“I would say I lead by example, but I will definitely be more vocal this year; if somebody’s having a bad shift, I’ll try and pick them up,” said Williamson. “I’ll compete every shift and show the young guys how the Vipers play. I’ll maintain my off-ice habits and make sure the Viper culture is respected as well.”

Lambert, who is back for his 20-year-old season after de-committing from the University of Alaska-Fairbanks Nanooks, wore an ‘A’ last season. The Saskatoon product rang up 19 goals and compiled five points as Vernon clipped the Salmon Arm Silverbacks 6-5 in their home opener Saturday night at Kal Tire Place.

Lambert’s ability to make his teammates better is just one of the many attributes he brings to the table. His veteran presence and experience will allow him to help the talented group of younger players.

Kelly, a monster d-man, was an instrumental part of the Snakes last season and has been rewarded with his hard work and dedication. On the ice, the Orchard Lake, Mich. product had three goals and as points. His defensive play was extremely solid and caught the attention of Air Force, where he will play NCAA hockey next season.

Lansdell joined the Vipers in October of last season and had an immediate impact. As he learned the Viper culture and structure, his play reflected that in his ability to score and defend.

The 19-year-old from Langley has had an impressive start to the season with four points and six shot blocks in two games.