The Future Is Venom: Ari Sandhu Joins 16U AAA Roster

ABBOTSFORD, BC — The Venom Hockey Club is excited to announce the signing of Maple Ridge, BC defenseman Ari Sandhu (2012) to the 16U AAA roster for the 2026/27 NAPHL AAA season.

Sandhu joins the Venom program after spending the 2025/26 season with the Sharpshooter Hockey Academy U15 AAA team, where he appeared in 13 games and recorded one goal in the NAPHL.

While Ari is one of the younger players joining the Venom roster, it was his work ethic, competitiveness, and desire to improve that stood out to the coaching staff. After attending the Venom HC ID Camp in July, Sandhu quickly caught the attention of the coaches with his willingness to compete, battle through difficult situations, and continually push himself to get the best outcome possible.

“He works hard, and he is willing to dig deep when things get difficult. He came into our ID Camp in July and showed us that he really wants to get better. That stood out to our coaching staff.” said GM/President Brady Douglas.

As Ari continues his development with the Venom, the coaching staff will focus on helping him take the next steps in his game, particularly in hockey IQ, footspeed, and shot strength. With his willingness to work and his drive to make something of his hockey career, the organization believes he has plenty of room to continue developing.

“Ari has a real drive to do something with hockey,” Douglas added. “He knows there are areas of his game that he needs to continue working on, and he is willing to put in the work. For us, that is extremely important. Skills can continue to develop, but you need players who are willing to show up every day, listen, compete, and work to become better.”

The Venom HC coaching staff believes Sandhu’s attitude and team-first mentality will make him a valuable addition to the 16U AAA dressing room as the organization prepares for its first season competing in the North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL).

Ari now joins a growing group of young Fraser Valley players committed to developing within the Venom Hockey Club program and pursuing opportunities at the next level.

Welcome to the Venom, Ari Sandhu!

Bleeding Venom. The Future Is Venom.