Salmonbellies Acquire Defenceman Reece Callies in Trade with Langley Thunder

The New Westminster Salmonbellies are pleased to announce the acquisition of the playing rights to defenceman Reece Callies from the Langley Thunder in exchange for left-handed forward Jake Govett. The deal is effective immediately and sees Callies join the Salmonbellies for the remainder of the 2025 WLA season, playoffs, and the pursuit of their 25th Mann Cup championship at home.

Callies, a 6’7”, 241-pound defenceman, is a standout stay-at-home presence who currently plays in the National Lacrosse League with the Calgary Roughnecks. He is teammates professionally with current Salmonbellies Haiden Dickson and Tyler Pace. Known for his physicality, poise, and penalty-free play, Callies also excels at transitioning the ball safely up the floor. He previously competed with the Thunder during their 2022 Mann Cup run.

In return, the Thunder receive the rights to Jake Govett, a promising young left-handed forward. Govett appeared in three games for New Westminster this season, tallying four goals and four assists. While highly regarded for his offensive upside, the Salmonbellies are currently deep on the left side with elite talents such as Mitch Jones, Will Malcolm, Ryan Martel, Logan Schuss, and Noah Armitage.

Team President and General Manager Ray Porcellato commented, “We believe we are in a very good position at our back gate as we look to the playoffs, but you never want to give up an opportunity to add an extra layer of athleticism and depth. That’s what Reece gives us. He’s one of those players that comes with nothing but upside. He is well-liked and respected by his peers and will fit into our dressing room quickly.”

Head Coach Jason Bishop added, “Reece is the kind of player every team wants. He plays an extremely smart defensive game and understands systems like the ones we use. He’s a team-first guy who is always in top condition and ready to step in right away.”

The Salmonbellies thank Jake Govett for his role in our team's success and wish him a long and successful career.  And we welcome Reece Callies to New Westminster as we continue our pursuit of WLA and Mann Cup glory.

Photo: NLL.com