The Virden Oil Capitals are proud to announce that 19 year
old defenseman Zach Whitecloud has committed to the Bemidji State University Beavers of the Western Collegiate Hockey Association. (NCAA-Division I)
Whitecloud, who is in his 2nd full season with the Oil Caps has become one of the top defenders in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League.
“This really does mean a lot, it’s something I have been working towards for a couple of years now” said Whitecloud.
“To commit to such a prestigious program such as Bemidji is truly special.”
The former Brandon AAA Midget Wheat King currently sits 6th in Oil Caps scoring with 2 goals and 25 assists for 27 points. Whitcloud, who had just 10 points in 57 games last year has easily been the most improved Oil Cap over that span. He is relied on in all defensive situations and has found an offensive touch that makes him a threat in the offensive zone as well.
“Devrin, Troy and Chad as well as my teammates have provided an atmosphere within the team that allows the entire unit to succeed. And when the team succeeds, every guy’s certain skill set and the type of game they play really shows.”
As Whitecloud and the Oil Capitals get set to embark on the 2nd half of the season and what is likely going to be a race to the finish with Portage, Steinbach and Winkler, the fan favourite knows what he has to do.
“I just need to keep doing what I’ve been doing all along. Putting in hours at the rink and in the gym.”
“I need to stay focused on the big picture, stay team oriented and help my team as much as possible to win a championship this year.”
The Oil Capitals would like to congratulate Zach and his family on reaching this milestone!
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*Bemidji State University is located in Bemidji, Minnesota and is well known as one of the top hockey schools in North America. The Beavers are currently coached by Tom Serratore who is in his 12th season behind the bench.BSU has two MJHL Alumni on their active roster, Brendan Harms (Portage Terriers) and Justin Baudry (Steinbach Pistons).*
