LetsGoDU

Riley Nash Close To A Decision
Budding Superstar To Select A College In "The Next Couple Of Weeks"

From: Salmon Arm Observer
by James Murray

It was a season that ended too early for the Salmonback Silverbacks (BCHL) all involved but still produced many memorable performances.
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Rookie centre Riley Nash was the most recognized player during their annual awards banquet, as he picked up awards for Top Scorer, Rookie of the Year and MVP.
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When asked about lasting impressions of the 2006-07 SilverBacks, head coach Ty Davidson said the emergence of Nash is something that sticks out in his mind.

“The excitement that grew over everyone in regards to his development,” said Davidson.

Where that development will take him next is the major question on the minds of SilverBacks’ personnel as Nash contemplates returning to Salmon Arm and junior hockey next season or making the move to the college ranks.

“It’s about whether I’m comfortable leaving,” said Nash prior to the awards dinner.

“It’s a question of, I’m ready to step up to the college level, versus the benefits of another year here. I’m hoping to make my decision in the next couple of weeks... to be fair to the colleges I’m considering and to Garry (Davidson - SilverBacks GM), because he could be recruiting with the knowledge of replacing me.”

The impact of Nash’s decision and the fact he opened the door to a number of options is a testament to the way he emerged as a dominant force in the BCHL over the course of the season. He talked about the different stages and how his confidence grew with each success.

“At the start of the year, I was away a lot so it wasn’t until right before Christmas, when I was actually home (in Salmon Arm) for a month straight, that I started to feel really comfortable. I started to get on a roll as far as goals and points and then after Christmas, I came back refreshed and even more confident.”

He elevated his game once again after then linemate and team leading scorer Ben Winnett went down with an injury. He was asked about picking up the reins for one of the best players in the league.

“It was a combination of continuing on the good streak I was on and the knowledge that we were missing our 30-goal scorer,” said Nash. “I knew I had to produce and be that much better, especially knowing other teams would be focusing on our line more.”

The rise of Riley Nash
SilverBacks rookie centre Riley Nash took home three awards during the team’s award dinner on Sunday evening. Nash is undecided on his playing plans for next season.