In just a few years, Justin Lee went from standout Virden Oil Capitals rookie to NCAA Division I national champion.
The Waskada product suited up for the local Manitoba Junior Hockey League team in 2017-2018. Now in his third year as a student-athlete in Colorado, he helped the University of Denver win the Frozen Four earlier this month as the men’s hockey team beat Minnesota State University, 5-1.
“When I heard the final buzzer go, I just threw all of my gear in the air – my gloves and my stick -and just turned around and went and jumped and celebrated with everybody at the net,” Lee said.
In Boston’s TD Garden, the Pioneers trailed Minnesota State, 1-0, at the intermissions. In the third period, the University of Denver tied up the game and scored four more goals – including two empty-net markers. What allowed the Pioneers to come from behind?
“Us as a team sticking together, not getting down on ourselves and just going to work for one another,” Lee said.
A defenceman, Lee earned an assist in the championship game. On the season, the 6-foot, 185-pounder scored three goals and recorded career highs of 13 assists and 16 points in 38 games. Lee posted six points in each of his first two seasons. What allowed him to put up points?
“I think just playing with great players,” Lee said. “We had lots of great players on our team and obviously points come when you’re playing with them.”
This season Lee served as one of the Pioneers’ alternate captains. When asked about how he helped lead this squad, he said:
“Our locker room is filled with a bunch of leaders. Cole Guttman, Ryan Barrow, Bobby Brink … just being vocal when you need to be and just trying to help the team.”
As a 17-year-old, Lee joined the Oil Capitals. He earned MJHL Rookie of the Year and MJHL All-Rookie Team honours. Lee helped the team make it all the way to the league finals.
“What I remember most about playing in Virden was the playoff run we went to when I was there. It was huge. I think it helped me get to the point where I am because I had to learn to play in big games and obviously against older guys as well,” said Lee, who spent a season in the United States Hockey League between his time in Virden and Denver.
