Abbies opt for homegrown talent at No. 1

CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. - There was lots of talk, perhaps even offers, but the Charlottetown Abbies were unwavering in their interest in the first overall selection at the Maritime Junior A Hockey League draft.

The Abbies used their top overall pick to take forward Neil Sherren from the Cornwall Thunder of the N.B.-P.E.I. Major Midget Hockey League at Friday's midget-aged draft in Charlottetown.

Dakota Johnson, a defenceman from the Cape Breton West Islanders went second overall to the Yarmouth Mariners and the Restigouche Tigers took Remi Blanchard, another blueliner from Miramichi, third overall.

We always knew Neil was the guy we wanted, said Abbies head coach Billy McGuigan.

While there was discussion to part with the top choice, offers were not substantial enough.

We had some interest but it wasnt elevated to that next level of interest, said Abbies president and general manager Jeff Squires.

Sherren comes off a 20-goal, 40-point season with the Thunder and will bring considerable upside to the MJAHL team that won just nine games last season.

Neil adds a lot of characteristics the Abbies are looking for, said McGuigan.

Hes a big kid, hes strong and the good thing about Neil is that he is a great character kid. Hes very likeable and hes poised.

Sherren, taken in the 11th round by Cape Breton Screaming Eagles at the QMJHL draft earlier this month, was told an hour before the draft he would be the Abbies top pick.

See Draft ...Page 8

The Moncton Beavers were honoured with the MJAHLs top executive award for 2006-07 and Truro Bearcats coach Shawn Evans was chosen as coach of the year.

Cecil Taylor will be serving as interim president of the MJAHL following the resignation of Vernon Doyle after four years at the helm. Doyle has accepted a job with the provincial government on P.E.I.

A selection committee has been struck to find a replacement for Doyle.



(With files from the The Guardian)