After four seasons with the Brandon Wheat Kings, Weyburn’s Quinn Mantei is taking the next step in his hockey career. The defenceman, who captained the Wheat Kings this past season, has committed to play hockey at the collegiate level. He will be going to Providence College, joining the Friars for the upcoming NCAA season.
“It was a lot of fun,” Mantei said when reflecting on his junior career. “All the guys that have gone through it all speak super highly about their junior hockey days, and it's no different for me. I loved every minute of it in Brandon and it sucks to see that come to an end.”
Over 250 games with the Wheat Kings, Mantei tallied 112 points, including career highs this past season with seven goals and 28 assists. Beyond the stats, he emphasized the personal growth he experienced during his time in Brandon.
“I kind of went in as just a young kid, almost, and developed a lot throughout my time there. So it was a huge part of my life and I wouldn't trade it for anything,” he shared.
Looking ahead, Mantei is eager to embrace both the athletic and academic opportunities that lie ahead at Providence.
“I'm excited to move up a level. It'll be a little bit of an older league, more of a pro style,” he said. “At the same time, be able to get going on my education and have a bit of a new experience.”
He pointed to the opportunity for continued development as the biggest factor in choosing Providence.
“I just thought it was time to move on from junior hockey and to take the next step. And I think I'm ready for it and going to be able to come in and be a contributor early.”
As for his goals, Mantei remains focused on the long game.
“My main goal is just to play at as high a level as I can for as long as I can,” he said. “The end goal obviously being pro hockey at the highest level possible. In the short term here, I'm just excited to get going with Providence and hopefully have a successful season this year.”
And while hockey is front and center, he hasn’t lost sight of the bigger picture.
“Work towards my education and hopefully get a degree here within the next few years.”