Johnson, Chiefs’ leading scorer, will sign with Tampa Bay

WHL: Sources in Canada have confirmed that Spokane native Tyler Johnson, the Spokane Chiefs’ leading scorer, will sign a three-year entry level contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning when the team returns from its two-game weekend series in Prince George.

Johnson, a Central Valley graduate, is an undrafted free agent and is in his last year of eligibility in the Western Hockey League.

It is likely Johnson (pictured above) will play next season for Norfolk, Va., in the American Hockey League, where former teammate Dustin Tokarski is the goalie.

Johnson is second in the league scoring race with 105 points, four points behind Linden Vey of Medicine Hat. It is just the 15th 100-point season in Spokane history, the first since 1994, and is the 10th-highest total.

He has 47 goals after getting one in the 5-4 win over PG on Friday, to lead the league, and 58 assists with eight games to play.

In four seasons, Johnson has 122 goals, which is eighth in franchise history, and 272 points, which is seventh.

Dave Trimmer

WSU coach Palileo resigns

Volleyball: Washington State University volleyball head coach Andrew Palileo resigned, WSU Director of Athletics Bill Moos announced Friday.

“We thank Andrew for his three years of service to Washington State Athletics,” Moos said. “Under his guidance the Cougars returned to the NCAA tournament after a six-year absence. We respect Andrew’s decision and will assist him with any future endeavors.”

Palileo coached three seasons with the Cougars, compiling a 34-54 record. He led the Cougars to the 2009 NCAA tournament and was named Pacfic-10 Conference coach of the year. Palileo has a 273-195 (.583) record in 14 seasons as a collegiate volleyball coach.

“I want to thank the Washington State community for the opportunity to coach at a great institution,” Palileo said. “I have had a great experience working with the athletes and support staff and I am looking forward to watching the progress of this current team.”

Associate head coach Brian Lamppa, assistant coach Jennifer Fry and coordinator of operations Kara Kiefer are continuing their duties with the WSU volleyball program.