Jackson Foster of the Merritt Centennials has committed to play collegiate hockey for the Portage College Voyageurs in the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference this fall.
Foster, 21, captained the Centennials in their inaugural Kootenay International Junior Hockey League season. He had nine points in 41 regular season games.
“Thank you for the support from my teammates, coaches, staff, my family and billets,” said Foster. “I’m honoured to be given the opportunity to play college hockey and further my education.”
Foster made significant strides this season in his defensive play.
“Particularly with my gap control and ability to take away time and space from opponents in the offensive zone,” said Foster, whose play contributed to the Centennials qualifying for the KIJHL Teck Cup playoffs in its inaugural season. “By staying tighter to my checks and anticipating more effectively, I was able to close gaps quicker and disrupt scoring chances, becoming a more reliable and impactful presence on the defensive end.”
Foster said the Centennials organization was instrumental in helping him earn this commitment.
“The support from the coaches and staff provided an environment where I could grow on- and off-the-ice,” he said. “Being named captain was a huge honour and gave me the opportunity to lead by example. Playing significant minutes allowed me to continue developing all areas of my game. I’m grateful for the trust they placed in me and the role I was given to succeed.”
The Abbotsford, B.C. native, who played a total of 157 career junior games, began his junior hockey career in the Pacific Junior Hockey League.
“Jackson was a phenomenal player and leader for us last year and will be missed,” said Centennials head coach-assistant general manager Wes McLeod. “We are excited for him to take this next step in his hockey and academic career as he pursues his degree.”
