A pair of rookie defencemen are learning while they contribute for the Virden Oil Capitals.
At 16, Tyler Teasdale, who hails from Winnipeg, is one of the youngest players in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League. Fellow rookie blue liner Jackson Orr is an 18-year-old from Brandon.
“Jackson and Tyler have really settled in and played well, particularly in the last 15 games or so,” Virden head coach Tyson Ramsey said before last week’s games. “Both young guys are making strides everyday.”
The duo is enjoying playing for the Oil Caps and the community.
“Virden has a great community and awesome fans that make every home game so much fun to play in and the team feels really close, which makes coming to the rink everyday that much more fun, so I’m glad that I got the opportunity to play here,” Orr said.
He played last season for the Brandon Wheat Kings U18 team. Teasdale suited up in 2018-2019 for the Winnipeg Wild U18 squad. Even for talented players, Junior A hockey is a step up.
“The biggest adjustment for me has been playing against bigger and faster players and having to make decisions quicker,” Teasdale said. “Living away from home has also been a new experience for me.”
He billets with Kyla and Pat Martens and three of their children: Cole, Ryder, and Janelle. Teasdale said it has been great living there. The 6-foot-1, 170-pound defenceman has two assists in 42 games this season. He has been regularly paired with fellow rookie Bray Rookes of Manson.
“Tyler is a very smart guy and has some natural ability at 16 years old that compares with some older players,” Ramsey said. “He sees the ice (very) well and has the ability to make reads and plays that other guys just don’t see. He has really improved his game throughout the season and we can’t wait to see what he will be in a year’s time.”
Orr, a 6-foot, 187-pounder, has had various D-partners this season. As of late, he has been teamed with Darren Gisti, a 20-year-old veteran acquired in January. Orr has an assist in 37 games.
“Jackson is a strong body who works hard and defends with a purpose,” Ramsey said. “He is developing into one of our best shot blockers. When he stays within himself and makes a good first pass, he is a real good player for us. He also is a great teammate and does so much in the community.”
Orr was recognized by the MJHL for his community involvement with an appointment as the Oil Caps’ RBC Community Ambassador. Orr billets with Adele and Dylan Clarke, who happen to be his aunt and uncle.
“It’s really nice being able to stay with family while I’m here because it makes it still feel like I’m at home,” he said. “I also live with my two younger cousins, Zayda and Zander, and I can say for sure that my mini stick skills have gotten way better trying to keep up with Zander.”
