It’s been years in the making, but Logan Stankoven is finally a Kamloops Blazer.

The Kamloops native was selected fifth overall by the club at the WHL Bantam Draft in Red Deer. News spread south to Philadelphia where Stankoven is taking part in a tournament.

“Oh I’m so thrilled…this is what we wanted as a family. It’s nice to see the day arrive. I’ve been focused on this tournament here, but definitely it’s great news,” he told NL Sports.

The five-foot-seven Stankoven was regarded as one of the top forwards available after playing for Yale Hockey Academy in Abbotsford where he scored 57 goals and added 33 assists for 90 points this season.

“He’s a winner, plain and simple,” added Blazers Director of Player Personnel, Matt Recchi.

“He’s a quality kid, he comes from a quality family we are real familiar with. He just makes things happen with an unmatched work ethic and skill set. He’s a special player. We are excited to add him to our organization.”

Blazers majority owner Tom Gaglardi was at the Blazers draft table when the selection was made.

“I truly believe we got the best player in the draft and the fact he’s from Kamloops is a bonus,” Gaglardi said. “We were drafting the best player, and the fact he’s a local kid is secondary in our minds. I think we picked the best player today. We are proud to welcome him to the Blazers organization.”

Stankoven is expected to take part in the Blazers spring camp that is coming up at the end of May.