The Kootenay International Junior Hockey League has an exciting new wave of rookie talent entering the 2022-23 season, which begins on Sept. 23. Leading up to the start of the season, we will highlight those players from each team.
Next in the New Wave series are the Summerland Steam. The Steam placed third in the Bill Ohlhausen division last season with 22 wins in 42 games and advanced to the Division Final in the Teck Cup playoffs.
Here’s a look at their new wave of rookies with insight from Head Coach & GM Mark MacMillan.
Carter Rolston
Forward, South Zone U18AA Rolston, 17, is a Summerland native who was an affiliate with the Steam playing one game last season. In 20 games with the South Zone, Rolston had 22 points. In two games with the Rockets U17AAA 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. I’m excited.”
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Ryan Donovan,
Forward, OMAHA Central Rockets U18AA Donovan, 18, is a Kelowna native who had 40 points in 20 games to lead the Rockets in points during an undefeated season that was capped off 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.” |
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Nash Bishop
Forward, OMAHA Central Rockets U18AA As Donovan’s linemate, Bishop, 18, a Kelowna native put up 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.” |
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Keenan Conn
Forward, Beaumont U18 AA Conn put up 39 points in 32 games and MacMillan saw him at a showcase camp and just loved the kid when talking to him. “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.” |