The Swift Current Broncos' first round pick in the 2025 WHL Prospects Draft got a taste of junior hockey last night.
Cohen Rotar had an assist in Swift Current's 2-1 win over Regina in a pre-season rookie game.
"It felt pretty good," Rotar said. "Unreal fans, unreal arena, and just a good game by the boys all-around."
Playing against other WHL hopefuls brought a different pace of play for the prospect.
"Way faster and way better competition than minor hockey," Rotar said of his experience. "A lot faster. A lot more physical. A lot less space to do more fancy stuff, so you've just got to play simple hockey. Gonna try to develop my game as best as I can so I'm even more ready for next year."
Rotar had an assist on Tanner Massey's goal early in the game. Their line with Jamie Kirwan was able to generate some opportunities for the Broncos.
"A nice goal," Rotar said. "We were just building chemistry as the game went along and forechecking hard. Good things happen when you do those things."
His play also caught the eye of his potential future bench boss.
"Cohen played an excellent game tonight," said Broncos Head Coach Dean DeSilva. "I thought he really worked hard on both sides of the puck.
Rotar isn't eligible to play full-time with the Broncos until 2026-27, but his first impression has been a positive one.
"Players are very welcoming," Rotar said. "The vets welcome you like you're a part of the team already. The staff are amazing and everything here is just awesome."
The Broncos continue their pre-season at home against Moose Jaw tomorrow.