Leadership is essential to any successful team. Each year the honour of captaincy is bestowed upon those that seek to better the group and themselves. These men are not just exceptional players, but people as well, dedicated to pushing this group forward.
The Coquitlam Express present: Our Leadership Core
James Shannon: Hailing from New York, New York, Shannon joined the Express as a 19 year old and immediately impressed. A phenom in the faceoff dot his expertise on the defensive end and penalty kill was unmatched. His knack for the back of the net allowed him to notch 9 goals and 21 points through 54 games in 2023-2024. When he wasn’t on the ice due to injury at the beginning of the 2024 playoffs, it was evident. Dedication to community and team are a huge reason why the C will be emblazoned on his chest this season. A product of Brunswick School in USHS-Prep, he’s committed to Quinnipiac for his post BCHL career.
“Shanny embodies the identity of our team,” said Express Head Coach Jeff Wagner. “He’s a smart player that brings all the intangibles to make an impact in a variety of ways and is a great mentor for our younger players.”
Cooper Wilson: A local kid from North Vancouver has come home to the lower mainland and looks to dominate the blueline in his 19 year old season. This isn’t the first time he’s dawned an Express jersey though. Back in 2022 he played a game for the Express as an AP while a member of the Vancouver NW Hawks. A full season in Nanaimo last year saw his defensive and leadership acumen thrive and through main camp it was on another level. A powerplay goal in the preseason shows he’s not just all about defence however.
“Cooper Wilson is the only non-returner of our leaders, but he meshed with our group right away,” remarked Wagner. “He’s a guy who competes hard everyday and has shown a strong ability to mentor our young players.”
Jackson Krill: A wily veteran from Port Moody, BC who’s heading into campaign number five in the BCHL. The former Trail Smokeater and Merritt Centennial has notched 76 points in his career so far and is poised to be a critical offensive piece this season. With over 150 games of BCHL experience, his leadership skills have been honed through adversity and triumph. In the preseason his shot and speed were looking lethal as ever. This penultimate season in junior just may be his best yet. After his time with the Express he’ll be heading to the NCAA with Vermont.
“Jackson Krill is our most veteran player experience wise,” emphasized Wagner. “He has high expectations for himself and for his teammates and will help us stay accountable to maintaining our standards on and off the ice.”
Sam Frandina: A second year Express D-man hailing from Hanover, New Hampshire, Frandina is always ready to fly. The electric blueliner helped setup 21 goals last season while adding five of his own all while being perhaps the fastest skating defender in the BCHL. His experience on the special teams will be vital to introducing the newcomers to Express hockey as this campaign gets underway. Don’t let his big smile fool you, he is always ready to stick up for his teammates at a moments notice. St Lawrence will be lucky to have him once this season is over.
“Sam Frandina is a player who plays with enthusiasm and skill and has the same enthusiastic approach off the ice that is infectious in our room,” said Coach Wagner.
We know this crew has what it takes to represent the Express at the highest level. Big things are happening this season on the ice and off it, and these gentlemen will be at the lead.
