Daylan Robertson is going to be able to pull himself away from management books and eat up ice time with the Summerland Steam.
A busy schedule at UBC-Okanagan’s management program didn’t allow Robertson to start his final junior hockey season. Things are different as he will be able to play while attending school.
“It’s exciting,” said Robertson. “I missed playing hockey.”
The former captain and leading scorer for the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League club returned last weekend and made his season debut Saturday in Chase against the Heat.
Robertson said he was lucky enough that Steam coach John DePourcq and Gregg Wilson welcomed him back.
“It should really help us down the stretch,” said DePourcq. “He’s a great leader. Very strong on all ends of the puck. I never have to worry about that.”
The Steam also got this season’s captain, Paulsen Lautard back following a 15-game stint with the BCHL’s Trail Smoke Eaters where he produced two goals and six points. It’s good news for the Steam who just emerged from a five-game skid that included an overtime loss.
With Robertson, the Steam also get a lead-by-example type player.
“He’s not someone that is a big vocal person or anything like that,” added DePourcq. “Playoff hockey is all about being strong on the defensive side of the puck. He’s a real sharp guy when it comes to that.”
There was some concern from DePourcq with Robertson re-entering the mix only because of his conditioning. However, after watching him in two practices it isn’t a problem. Robertson, DePourcq said, skated a few times a week with a group of guys, and has always been known for staying in great shape.
“Last night (Tuesday), same thing as when he was on the team the last couple years, his work ethic is unbelievable,” said DePourcq.
“Obviously when you have been off that long it’s going to take a little bit to get used to the physical play. I’m sure he is going to catch on quickly.”
DePourcq plans to use Robertson with Lautard and Tyson Klingspohn, acquired from the Kimberley Dynamiters on Nov. 29 for Braden Saretsky after losing Lautard to the Smoke Eaters.
DePourcq said that trio should give them the best top line in the KIJHL.
“They should have a lot of success together,” said DePourcq.
“I think it will be fun,” said Robertson.
As for Klingspohn, the two just met.
“He’s a pretty skilled guy, scores lots so it should be fun,” Robertson added.
Despite the Steam’s recent slump, DePourcq said they are doing lot of great things.
He added they are in every single game.
“I love how we’re playing right now,” he said. “We’re starting to figure out how we need to play to have success.”
Both returning captains were in the lineup on the weekend when the team travelled to Chase, then Saturday at home when they hosted the North Okanagan Knights at the Summerland Arena.