Manson’s Bray Rookes seemed destined to play for the Virden Oil Capitals.
“I have always been an Oil Caps fan. I was in the crowd the night of the sold-out home opener of the first season and had season tickets every year,” said Bray, whose uncles coached the hockey team, in reference to the squad’s start in Virden in 2012.
“I am familiar with everyone that has ever played for the Caps and still look up to a few.
“Being such a big fan, I know how much the crowd is devoted to seeing the Oil Caps be successful and respectful young men and try to provide that for the community now.”
The 17-year-old rookie has earned a contributing role on the Virden backend this season. The 6-foot, 199-pound defenceman had three goals, six points, and 51 penalty minutes in 33 games through Sunday.
“Bray has had an impressive rookie season so far,” Virden head coach Tyson Ramsey said. “He is a big, strong kid that moves well and plays the game hard. He competes real hard every night and is becoming a very good defender.”
Before coming to the Oil Capitals, Rookes developed his game at the bantam AAA and U18 AAA levels in the Yellowhead Chiefs program. It is a step up though to the Manitoba Junior Hockey League – even from the U18 level.
“Junior A is more games than U18/midget, and also skating almost every day can be demanding but totally worth it,” Rookes said.
He has proven that he can compete in the MJHL.
“He has really found a home on our penalty kill and as he is only 17,” Ramsey said, “We really look forward to how Bray develops. He will be a very good player in our league and we are happy he is part of our group.”
Rookes is certainly pleased to wear the jersey of the team he has long cheered for.
“The best part about playing with the Oil Caps is playing with all the great guys on the team and being a part of the community,” he said.
Rookes has been strongly backed during his hockey career by his family, including his parents Michael and Leanne and brothers Cody and Kurt.
“My grandparents and family are in the crowd almost every night and support me to the fullest, always doing what they can to make sure I have everything I need to be successful,” Rookes said.
