Local hockey players at the P3 summer hockey schools today got the thrill of seeing the Calder Cup and meeting Cochrane’s Ty Mueller, whose name will be on it as a member of the Abbotsford Canucks.
Mueller, who signed a three-year deal with the Vancouver Canucks last year, has the trophy for just one day and knew exactly who he wanted to share it with.
He developed his hockey skills locally with the Bow Valley Timberwolves, then played triple-A with the Airdrie Bisons and the AJHL’s Sherwood Park Crusaders. He was selected by the Canucks in the fourth round of the 2023 NHL entry draft while playing for the University of Nebraska-Omaha.
“It’s awesome to be here,” he said. “Anytime you can give back to the community and be with the younger hockey players and show them what they want to be working towards is pretty special.”
He's gathering with a few friends this afternoon to show them the cup and talk about the experience.
After finishing second in the Pacific Division of the 32-team league, Abbotsford battled through 24 gruelling playoff games before defeating the Charlotte Checkers in Game 6 of the final.
“It’s really cool. I mean, winning’s not easy, it doesn’t happen very often, and to be able to do it in my first year is very special.”
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Mueller, 22, says he played with a special group in Abbotsford.
“I think the coolest thing is you’re going to remember all those guys for the rest of your life because you accomplished something together.”
It’s been some time since he’s been at the SLS Centre, and he noticed the changes. He grew up playing at the centre for different teams and training with P3 Sports.
Soon, he’ll report to Vancouver’s training camp. Rookie camp opens Sept. 10 before moving to Penticton for main camp on Sept. 17.
“I’ll go to camp and keep working hard and see where it takes me.”
Mueller made his NHL debut on Apr. 12 against the Minnesota Wild and two days later dressed against the San Jose Sharks.
