Nashville/Buffalo/Chilliwack – Lots of smile with the Chilliwack Minor Hockey Association.
Zach Benson was drafted 13th overall in NHL entry draft (from WHL Winnipeg Ice). There have only ever been 5 players from Chilliwack drafted into the NHL with only one player, Dave Archibald, actually playing games in the NHL. In 1987, Archibald was selected 6th overall in the NHL entry draft and is the only player from Chilliwack drafted in the first round until tonight.
36 long years later, Zach Benson has been drafted by the Buffalo Sabers in the first round (13th Overall) in this years NHL entry draft in Nashville Tennessee.
From the CMHA Facebook page:
Zach is the epitome of what a hockey player should be. His immense talent is only surpassed by his unparalleled work ethic. Practice, game, dryland or mini sticks, he only knows one way to play, 100%. We feel he is the best 200 foot player in the NHL draft. With a motor that never shuts off, Benson is an elite defensive specialist despite being one of the most prolific scorers in all of junior hockey.
The cherry on top for this elite talent is the character he continues to display off the ice. In every interview he praises linemates, coaches, past coaches and parents for all of his success. He has what every kid dreams of and that is a support group like no other. If you have ever attended one of his games, you know the Benson clan comes out in full force to support. Darcy and Jaclyn are as committed as parents can be to all three of their boys. They are representative of every member of CMHA who sacrifice all of their time for their kids. In the Benson Clan, Grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins come out in droves to support one another like nothing I’ve ever seen. Their family is inspirational when it comes to supporting their own.
We at Chilliwack minor are so proud to recognize the incredible accomplishment of one of our own. His countless hours of dedication have translated into success at the highest level of the sport. We are so excited to see what the future has in store for this young man.
CONGRATULATIONS ZACH! @zachbenson_6
