In his final junior season, Virden Oil Capitals forward Colten Miller is making an impact on and off the ice.
Last season the Killarney product was the winner of the RBC Manitoba Junior Hockey League Community Award for his contributions off the ice to Virden. During this campaign the 20-year-old forward continues to give back to the community while leading the team, as of Monday, in points.
“Colten works extremely hard and that leads to him having opportunities to contribute offensively,” Virden head coach Tyson Ramsey said. “He is best when he keeps his game simple and plays with some physicality. He takes pride in his defensive game as well and being in the right spots and on the right side of the puck translates into offence for him and his linemates.”
Miller was named the Oil Caps’ Hardest Working Player last season. That hard work has translated into increased points production in his third season with the team. With four goals and 19 points in 24 games, the 6-foot-4, 190-pounder has already surpassed the career-high 16 points he posted in 40 games last season. He leads the team in points and assists (15). What has allowed him to put up points this season?
“I think for me, it’s just been playing my game and keeping things simple without complicating things too much,” Miller said. “My linemates have been great and they are huge part of it.”
Last season Miller was the team’s RBC MJHL Community Ambassador. He enjoys being involved in the community in a variety of ways. Some of his favourites are the Breakfast Club, recess at Goulter School, and Muffin Mondays where players distribute baked goods at Goulter School.
“Colten has done a great job off the ice volunteering in our community,” Ramsey said. “He is always willing to lend a hand with whatever we ask of him and he has been a leader and role model in this area for our younger guys. He is personable and really communicates well with the public young and old. He is a great ambassador for our organization.”
Miller billets with Perry and Tara Meikle. He said, “They’ve been awesome and I’m really grateful to be able to live with them in my final year in Virden.” After hockey, he would like to study agriculture business and work on the family farm alongside his father.
