Ethan Everett has loved hockey for as long as he can remember.
Everett, of Dauphin, played with the Dauphin Clippers last season, and while he wasn't necessarily expecting to be a consistent point producer, that's exactly what he was. In 27 regular-season games, Everett scored five times and had 15 points.
He then posted one assist in three playoff games.
"I was pretty pleased with how it went, I wasn't expecting much going into the season when it came to personal stats," said Everett. "I was just happy to help the team have a good season, being a Clipper was an incredible opportunity, and meant a lot to me."
As a new season has arrived, the 18-year-old from Dauphin has taken the next step. Ethan is now playing in the Capital Region Junior Hockey League with the Lundar Falcons. Everett made the team out of tryouts and is pleased with his progress over the past two years.
"It felt awesome to make the team. After tryouts, the coaching staff called me into the room and said they wanted me to stick around," offered Everett. "They liked what they saw, I improved from the start of camp and that's my goal for this year, just to continue improving."
The Falcons are in a battle for first place with six wins in eight games this year. They're tied with St. Malo for second and are just three points back of Beausejour for first place.
"There is a high standard within the organization, you always have to be giving your best, no time off," offered Everett. "It's pretty exciting to be a part of a team with a winning culture, great start for our group."
Ethan, who grew up playing within Dauphin Minor, has played in three games with the Falcons.
"I feel as if I could have done better in my three games, it's been a learning process," continued Everett. "With that said, I'm working hard and putting everything I have into helping this team. I'm looking forward to the rest of the season."
Ethan recalls his first shift with the Falcons.
"Once I got onto the ice and touched the puck, all of the nerves went away," offered Everett. "Especially when I laid my first hit, it just felt like I belonged and felt comfortable on the ice."
The Falcons will look for their eighth win of the season on Saturday when they host the Selkirk Fishermen.