The latest chapter of Glenn Gawdin's promising hockey career couldn't be more convenient but there is definitely some big changes on the horizon.
After developing into a bluechip prospect with Seafair Minor Hockey's rep program, the 15-year-old is now playing for the Greater Vancouver Canadians and his timing couldn't have been better. The B.C. Major Midget Hockey club struck a deal with the City of Richmond to play all its home games and train out of the Olympic Oval.
The hockey developments close to home have meant Gawdin being able to continue on at McRoberts secondary school for his Grade 10 year. However, it might be his last West Coast winter for a while.
The talented forward, was taken fifth overall in last spring's Western Hockey League Bantam Draft by the Swift Current Broncos. He made his way to the Saskatchewan city in August to attend training camp for what was just his second visit to the prairie province.
"I was once in Saskatoon a couple of summers ago (for a hockey camp) and it was bit of a cultural shock then," Gawdin laughed. "I actually thought the town would be smaller than it was so that was a positive thing and the camp was really well done. I learned a lot from it.
"I know I'm going to miss being at home with my friends but I'm also excited to leave too. It's just something I know I have to do."
For now, it's about elevating his game as a rookie in the the BCMMHL where he is lining up regularly against the top 15-to-17year-olds in the province.
After a slow start, Gawdin has had a major role in the Canadians being among the hottest teams in the league. He has 26 points in 20 games, including eight goals as Greater Vancouver enters the Christmas break in fifth place with a 12-8-2 record.
"It's a big difference from Bantam to Major Midget," he said. "The higher you get in hockey, the faster the game is going to get. You are also going up against older guys who are bigger and stronger.
"Swift Current have told me just to play my game. I actually think there is probably more pres-sure on you once you have been drafted. Hopefully I will be there next year."
He got a taste of the WHL two weeks ago when the Broncos called him up for a couple of games during their West Coast swing.
He played at Kamloops then got to suit up among family and friends when Swift Current played the Vancouver Giants at the Pacific Coliseum on Dec. 7.
What helped accelerate his WHL debut was a strong showing at last month's U16 Western Challenge in Calgary where he helped B.C. win gold for the first time in the four province event.
B.C. capped an unbeaten run with a dominating 9-3 victory over two-time defending champion Team Alberta. Gawdin had a goal and two assists.
