The next generation of Moose Jaw Warriors standouts are taking their first step in the Hockey Canada Program of Excellence.
Defenceman Marek Howell and forward Lyndon Lakovic were among the 100 players named to the Under-17 Development Camp taking place in July in Calgary, with the aim of landing a spot on one of three Team Canada squads for the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge.
“The Warriors organization would like to congratulate Marek and Lynden on being selected to Canada’s U17 development camp,” said Warriors general manager Jason Ripplinger. “This is a great achievement for both players and we wish them all the best.”
Howell was the Warriors' 16th overall pick in the first round of the 2021 WHL Prospects Draft and he followed up with eight goals and 14 points in 33 games with the Calgary Royals of the Alberta Elite Hockey League 18U AAA.
He made his WHL debut this past season, putting up a goal and two points in five games.
Moose Jaw selected Lakovic in the second round, 27th overall in the 2021 WHL Prospects Draft and saw the 6-foot-5 forward put up 18 goals and 27 points in 33 games with the West Vancouver Academy of the Canadian Sport School Hockey League.
Lakovic played one game with the Warriors and will be seeking his first WHL point this season.
“The national under-17 development camp is the first stage in introducing these athletes to the Program of Excellence, and it is a great opportunity for them to develop as players and learn what it takes to wear the Maple Leaf,” said Alan Millar, Hockey Canada director of player personnel and the former Warriors general manager.
“We look forward to enhancing these young players’ ongoing development during this camp and starting the process of building our three national U17 teams for the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge this fall.”
A solid showing at camp and fast start to the 2022-23 campaign would go a long way to seeing both players named as one of the 66 who will represent Canada at the Challenge Nov. 5-12 in Langley and Delta, B.C.
