The Chilliwack Chiefs are proud to announce that 2005-born goaltender Vladimir Nikitin has signed with the club.
Nikitin spent most of the 2022/23 season with the Barys Astana U20 team in the Kazakhstan U20 league. In 24 games played, the 18-year-old posted a .921 save percentage and a 2.07 goals against average. He was also named the league’s top goaltender.
“We’re excited to have Vladimir join the Chiefs family. He’s a big athletic goaltender with a ton of potential. His goal is to play college hockey, and we’re excited for the opportunity to give him the chance to chase it,” said Head Coach and General Manager Brian Maloney.
The 6’4 netminder represented Kazakhstan at the U18 World Championship Division 1 tournament this past year. Along with taking home the gold medal, he was named the tournament’s top goalie and the Kazakhstan’s top player.
“I am extremely grateful for the faith in me to be a part of the team. I will be very glad to be a part of such a large family as soon as possible,” said Nikitin.
Welcome to Chilliwack Vladimir!
