Top Junior Coaches Set to Scout Talent at Surf & Turf Showcase in Saskatoon

The Surf & Turf Showcase is returning to Saskatoon from May 30 to June 1, 2025, and it’s bringing a powerhouse lineup of junior hockey coaches eager to scout the next wave of top prospects. With attendance from some of the most respected programs across North America, the showcase is set to be one of the premier spring events for players aiming to break into the junior ranks.

Confirmed coaches include Alex Evin (Castlegar Rebels – KIJHL), Richard Bohan (Utah Outliers – USPHL NCDC), Nick Mish (Johnstown Tomahawks – NAHL), James Spaargaren (San Diego Sabers – USPHL Premier), Jeremy Blumes (Ontario Jr. Reign – USPHL Premier), Tyler Drader (SAIT Trojans – ACAC), and Travis Rybchinski (Dakota College at Bottineau – ACHA).

This distinguished group of coaches represents a broad spectrum of junior and collegiate hockey, offering prospects exposure to multiple pathways in their development journey.

“An Opportunity to Be Seen”

Among those attending is Alex Evin of the Castlegar Rebels, a program known for developing high-character players in British Columbia’s KIJHL.

“I’m super excited to be a part of the showcase and am looking forward to seeing the talent on display,” said Evin. “I believe this showcase presents a tremendous opportunity for players who may have flown under the radar to get spotted by myself and the other coaching staff attending.”

Evin’s presence underscores the national reach of the event, with scouts from across the US and Canada traveling to find potential prospects.

Specialized Goalie Attention

Goaltenders will receive high-level attention as well, with Nick Mish from the Johnstown Tomahawks (NAHL) leading a focused goalie session. Mish, known for his expertise in goalie development, broke down the structure and goals of the unique format.

“First off, thank you to Jeremy Blumes and the Ontario Jr. Reign for having me,” said Mish. “The experience for the goalie prospects coming in is exciting. They have the opportunity to showcase themselves not only in game situations but in a goalie session as well."

The goalie-specific session will feature a progressive format: 20 minutes of crease movement and skating, followed by targeted shooting stations to assess rebound control, positioning, and decision-making. Mish places special emphasis on puck-handling skills:

“We have puck play incorporated as well—and I love puck-playing goalies for our team—so the better they handle the puck, the more you will be getting my attention.”

He concluded by encouraging all aspiring junior goaltenders to take advantage of the opportunity:

“Whether you’re flying under the junior radar or just looking for a better opportunity, sign up and get to Saskatoon!”

Saskatchewan Pride and Prairie Competition

For Travis Rybchinski of Dakota College at Bottineau, the showcase is a chance to tap into a fertile recruiting ground: Saskatchewan.

“We are looking forward to attending the camp in Saskatoon,” Rybchinski shared. “There are always some great players out of Saskatchewan, and we know there will be some good competition. Players at the camp need to play their game and compete every time out there.”

Dakota College, which competes in both the ACHA level, is a frequent destination for players looking to combine a strong hockey experience with post-secondary academics. Rybchinski’s attendance offers players another pathway into college hockey.

A Coast-to-Coast Coaching Presence

Joining this strong coaching core are:

• Richard Bohan of the Utah Outliers (USPHL), representing one of the top Tier III programs in the U.S.
  
  

• James Spaargaren, head coach of the San Diego Sabers (USPHL), bringing insight from Southern California’s competitive junior scene.
  
  

• Jeremy Blumes, general manager and head coach of the Ontario Jr. Reign (USPHL), and the organizer behind the Surf & Turf Showcase.
  
  

• Tyler Drader of the SAIT Trojans (ACAC), who offers players an opportunity to play collegiate hockey in Alberta’s competitive post-secondary circuit.
  
  

Blumes has worked extensively to build the showcase into a reputable, high-impact event where players can be seen by programs from multiple leagues and levels.

“Whether you're an offensive-minded forward, a mobile defenseman, or a hard-working goaltender, this showcase is built to give everyone a chance to be seen,” said Blumes. “There’s no better place this spring to elevate your profile.”

More Than Just Ice Time

The Surf & Turf Showcase isn’t just about games—though the competition is intense. The weekend includes a blend of competitive games, dedicated goaltending sessions, and off-ice education. Coaches and scouts will be available throughout the event to speak with players and families, provide feedback, and discuss next steps in the junior hockey journey.

Vincent Pietrangelo, an attendee of the Showcase’s earlier San Diego stop, emphasized the overall value the event offers:

“The Saskatoon camp provides a great opportunity for players to showcase themselves in front of a lot of different coaches at various levels.”

Whether a player is looking to crack a junior roster, land a college commitment, or simply get on the radar, the showcase’s structure is built to provide meaningful visibility and interaction.

Registration Still Open

There are still limited spots available for the May 30–June 1 event, but interested players are encouraged to register quickly before it sells out. With such a strong list of coaches confirmed, the 2025 edition of the Surf & Turf Showcase is poised to be the best yet.

Players who bring compete, skill, and a coachable mindset will walk away with more than just exposure—they’ll gain valuable insight into the next level and where they stand.