(Image Credit: Kamloops Storm)

By Marty Hastings

IN THE KIJHL

Storm GM Kolle hopes significant deadline deal spurs championship run

Jan 7, 2026 | 6:30 PM

KAMLOOPS — The Kamloops Storm didn’t wait for the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League trade deadline on Saturday (Jan. 10). 

They made their big move on Monday, acquiring two 2005-born forwards from the Nelson Leafs – their two top scorers, Quinn Ramsay and Cale Nachai – in exchange for three 2007-born players, forwards Sean Milford and Jack Day, along with defenceman Emery Corpe. 

“This deal confirms that we know we have a special bunch,” Kamloops Storm general manager Matt Kolle said. “It’s probably our greatest chance for success in the eight years that I’ve been with the team. I gave up three prospect players for two established veteran players who we hope are going to put us over the top.” 

Kamloops (22-6-1-1) is tied atop KIJHL standings and leads the Okanagan-Shuswap Conference, while rebuilding Nelson (8-16-3-0) is at the bottom of the Neil Murdoch Division. 

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Ramsay – a 5-foot-11, 180-pound right shot from Cochrane, Alta. – was the Leafs’ leading scorer, with 28 points, including 15 goals, in 27 games this season. 

Nachai – a 6-foot-4, 195-pound right shot from Sherwood Park, Alta. – has five goals and 16 points in 23 games this season. 

“It wasn’t a huge surprise,” Ramsay said of the trade. “It’s our last year of junior hockey and we want to be on a contending team. Me and Cale are both really excited.” 

Added Nachai: “I’m looking to help in any way I can to get that championship.” 

The Storm are scheduled to host Williams Lake on Friday (Jan. 9) and Chase on Sunday (Jan. 11), with game times slated for 7:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., respectively, at McArthur Island Sport and Event Centre.

“If I had one thing to say to the people of Kamloops, it’s come out and support us because you’re going to see something special,” Kolle said. “You’re going to see a team that’s out there to bring home a championship this year.” 

They have reached the final four times since the franchise moved to the Tournament Capital from Osoyoos in 2006, but the Kamloops Storm have never won the KIJHL title.