Coletyn Boyarski is coming back home to play hockey.
The Kelowna resident has signed to join the B.C. Intercollegiate Hockey League’s Okanagan Lakers this fall.
Boyarski, 20, completed his lone season in the KIJHL with the Osoyoos Coyotes putting up 32 goals and 54 points in 42 games, then adding eight goals and nine points in five KIJHL playoff games. Boyarski, who began his junior career playing two seasons in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League, said it’s been a dream of his to play university hockey.
“It’s a fantastic fit for me to stay here locally and continue to play,” he said. “A lot of it comes down to schooling as Okanagan College has a fantastic business program and the Lakers coaching staff. They were all fantastic talking to me and I think the program has got a very bright future and I plan to be a part of it.”
Boyarski, who plans to study business to work in the financial investment industry, said his time with the Coyotes allowed him to become a better player. Known for his defensive game, the Coyotes coaching staff gave Boyarski the opportunity to build his offensive confidence. It was all about the right opportunity and the players he was surrounded by that allowed him to break out offensively. His 54 points placed him just outside of the KIJHL’s Top-10 point producers.
Coyotes Head Coach Ken Law said Boyarski became a very respected team leader.
“He was always willing to do what was needed to help his team succeed and helped out the younger guys on what to expect and how to face the challenges throughout the season,” said Law. “The Lakers are getting a real team guy who will help lead by example and out work most players, if not all.”
Law added when Boyarski decided to join the Coyotes, he knew they were getting a huge piece that would elevate not only the offensive side of their game, but added depth defensively.
“As a player, no one shows more competitiveness on- and off-the-ice than Coletyn and I’m very happy he is getting the chance to continue his education while still being able to play hockey at the college level,” said Law.
