Duncan, BC – The Cowichan Capitals have acquired defenceman Jaden VanWalleghem from the Sherwood Park Crusaders in exchange for forward Taite Donkin.
The 17-year-old from Kenora, Ontario, joins the Capitals after spending his BCHL rookie season with the Powell River Kings before his playing rights were acquired by the Crusaders earlier this offseason.
VanWalleghem appeared in 46 games with the Kings during the 2025-26 season, recording 14 assists. Prior to making the jump to the BCHL, he totalled 23 points (three goals, 20 assists) in 47 games with the Kenora Thistles of the Manitoba U18 Hockey League. Standing 6-foot-1 and 179 pounds, VanWalleghem adds size, mobility and long-term potential to the Capitals’ defensive corps as the organization continues to shape its roster ahead of the 2026-27 BCHL season.
The organization would also like to thank Taite Donkin for his time with the Capitals and wish him all the best with the Sherwood Park Crusaders.
Additionally, the Capitals have traded Junsu Kwak to the Powell River Kings in exchange for future considerations.
The Cowichan Capitals would like to thank Junsu for his dedication during his time with the organization and wish him continued success both on and off the ice.
