Former Dynamiters and Kimberley native Leith Olafson has committed to Mount Royal University's USPORTS Cougars.
After one season with the Dynamiters, during which he had seven assists in 33 games, Olafson played three seasons with the Junior A Melfort Mustangs.
"It’s an incredible feeling as I always dreamed of playing college hockey, especially after joining the Dynamiters," Olafson said in a recent interview on kijhl.ca. "Now, having the chance to play in Calgary, just four hours from home, is amazing. I’m excited to prove myself at this next level.
"The level of competition is going to be a big step up. I’m really looking forward to playing with and against mature, high-calibre players. It’s perfect to challenge myself and grow."
Olafson said that MRU reached out to him as playoffs with the Mustangs were winding down.
"After the Centennial Cup, I knew it was time to commit," he said. "The program ticked all the boxes: great academics (he will study Kinesiology), close to home, and top-tier hockey. It was an easy decision."
During his last season with the Mustangs, Olafson had the opportunity to travel to Ontario to compete in the Centennial Cup, the annual Junior A national championship.
"It was an honour to represent the Mustangs and almost bring home a national championship," he said, adding the intensity was a big step up compared to the playoffs.
He also reflected on his time with the KIJHL playing with the Dynamiters.
"Playing for Kimberley as a 16-year-old was the best move for me. Instead of playing midget AAA, playing for Kimberley helped me develop and earn the opportunity to move to the next level," he said. "The KIJHL’s style of play is very similar to the SJHL, which made my transition seamless. It allowed me to step into a role where I could thrive and continue progressing as a player."
Olafson was also the recipient of the historic Jerry Bancks Award in 2021, during his time as a student athlete with Selkirk Secondary's Sports School.
