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Victoria Royals' draft gamble pays off with Eli McKamey signing

On Tuesday, the Victoria Royals secured a commitment from 16-year-old forward Eli McKamey of Cowichan Bay, B.C., through a development and scholarship agreement with the WHL.
This signing follows a landmark November rule change allowing players to compete in both the CHL and NCAA, which McKamey is poised to utilize by joining the Royals before attending the University of North Dakota.
McKamey had a standout 31-point season with 15 goals and 16 assists for the Penticton Vees in the BCHL last year, where he was the first player granted exceptional status at age 15.
The Royals selected McKamey 35th overall in the 2024 WHL Prospects Draft’s second round, an aggressive choice given the rule change likely caused other teams to pass on him.
General manager Jake Heisinger called McKamey a top player in his age group whose addition excites the organization, while McKamey’s path remains clear despite the franchise’s uncertain future after its league departure.

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grandforksgazette.ca

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Victoria Royals' draft gamble pays off with Eli McKamey signing

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Victoria Royals land Cowichan Bay standout after bold draft gamble

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