Drayton Valley Thunder Acquire Lachlan Staniforth in Exchange for Captain Billy Hooson
DRAYTON VALLEY, AB – The Drayton Valley Thunder of the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL) are
pleased to announce that they have acquired 2007 born defenseman Lachlan Staniforth from the
Whitecourt Wolverines in exchange for defenseman and team captain Billy Hooson. Staniforth joins the Thunder bringing a physical presence and a reliable defensive mind to the blueline.
Known for his high compete level and ability to neutralize opposing rushes, Staniforth provides the
Thunder with a younger presence on the back end who can contribute to the team’s long-term defensive
core.
In exchange, the Thunder bid farewell to Billy Hooson. As the team’s captain, Hooson has been a true
leader in the locker room. Since arriving in Drayton Valley and last year’s change in ownership, he has
been instrumental in rebuilding the team culture, setting a high standard of accountability, and serving as
a dedicated ambassador in the community.
“This was not an easy decision to make, especially when it involves your captain and a person of Billy’s
character” said General Manager Jeff Truitt. “In this league, to get a good player, you have to give up a
good player. While we feel that adding a younger defenseman like Lachlan strengthens our roster for the
future, it is difficult to see a leader like Billy move on. Billy has been instrumental in rebuilding our team
culture, and as an organization, we could not be more grateful for his time in Drayton Valley. We wish him
nothing but the best as he continues his career in Whitecourt.”
The Drayton Valley Thunder organization would like to officially welcome Lachlan to the community.
About the Drayton Valley Thunder:
The Drayton Valley Thunder are a proud member of the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL),
committed to developing elite hockey players and contributing positively to the community of Drayton
Valley.
