Before, Ty Banser was just a student at UBC-O. Now he can add student-athlete to his role.
Banser, of West Kelowna, has reached his goal of playing collegiate-level hockey thanks to his signing with the Okanagan Lakers – a B.C. Intercollegiate Hockey League expansion club – that represents UBC-O and Okanagan College in Kelowna.
“Earning this opportunity to play at a high level of university/college hockey with the Okanagan Lakers, while continuing my studies at UBC-O is an honour and an opportunity that I am truly ecstatic about!” says Banser.
The 20-year-old has been studying human kinetics the past two years and looks forward to representing the university as a student-athlete. He’s also excited to be a part of a team where everyone is motivated and driven towards their studies and sport.
Once the Lakers hit the ice this fall, Banser intends on playing a 200-foot game and knows he can be relied on in any situation.
“Leadership has always been an important part of my game, so I look forward to being a leader on and off the ice for the Okanagan Lakers,” says Banser, who put up 15 goals and 33 points in 85 career Kootenay International Junior Hockey League games.
At six-feet, 190 pounds, Banser added four points in 14 playoff games.
“Playing in the KIJHL has provided me with an opportunity to play fast-paced and physical hockey,” he says. “This has allowed me to mature as a hockey player by simplifying my game, which has led me to be able to make plays at a faster pace and under more pressure. I believe that my time playing with the Summerland Steam has prepared me to take this next step in my hockey career and be an impact player for the Okanagan Lakers.”
