Four rookies will join the Summerland Steam for the upcoming Junior B hockey season.
The team placed third in the Bill Ohlhausen division of the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League with 22 wins in 42 games and advanced to the Division Final in the Teck Cup playoffs.
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Carter Rolston, forward, is a 17-year-old Summerlander who was an affiliate with the Steam playing one game last season.
In 20 games with the South Zone, Rolston had 22 points. In a pair of games with the Rockets U17 AAA team, he had two goals.
“He’s an awesome kid and did a good job coming into practice for us. He’s a little water bug on the ice. He works really hard, is really gritty and he’s got some really good skills around the net. He’s got a great shot, great hands in tight,” said head coach and general manager Mark MacMillan.
Ryan Donovan, forward, is an 18-year-old Kelowna player who had 40 points in 20 games to lead the OMAHA Central Rockets U18AA team in points. The Rockets were undefeated during their season and finished with a provincial championship.
“He brings a lot of speed to the game. That’s what we like to play in Summerland, with lots of speed. He will be a welcome addition to the roster,” MacMillan said.
Nash Bishop, forward, was Donovan’s teammate with the OMAHA Central Rockets. The 18-year-old Kelowna player contributed 33 points in 15 games.
“He’s a bigger player, who plays a hard, physical style and has a ton of skill to go along with it. We’ve got a pretty small, quick team. Adding some size with him and some physical play will be a big part of our team,” MacMillan said.
Keenan Conn, forward, played with the Beaumont U18 AA team, posting 39 points in 32 games.
MacMillan noticed him at a showcase camp.
“He is smiling all the time and loves the game. He wakes up early every morning to get summer ice. I’m excited for him to come and bring energy to the rink. When you have guys like that around the rink, it’s always easier to have success when you love the game. He’s a skilled player, who sees the ice well. I’m looking forward to him bringing his energy to the rink,” MacMillan said.
The 2022-2023 Junior B season begins Sept. 23.
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