Connor Schmidt will represent Canada at the 2023 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge next month.
The Moose Jaw Warriors defenceman was named to Team Canada Red by Hockey Canada on Monday
The tournament will see 44 players suit up for Team Canada Red and White from Nov. 2-11 in Charlottetown and Summerside, PEI.
“Congratulations to Connor on his accomplishment,” Warriors general manager Jason Ripplinger said. “This is a great opportunity for Connor to play against the best players in the world at his age group.”
Schmidt is in his rookie season with the Warriors. The Sturgeon County, AB product has one goal in eight games so far this season.
“This summer we took the first step in introducing 66 young athletes to our Program of Excellence, which included preparations for short-term international competition,” said Benoit Roy, senior manager of hockey operations with Hockey Canada. “We couldn’t be more excited for the 44 players we have selected to represent Canada at this prestigious tournament and believe they will give us the best chance to compete for a gold medal.”
There will be 14 players from the Western Hockey League representing Canada at this year’s tournament.
The 2023 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge opens on Thursday, Nov. 2 with Schmidt and Canada Red facing off with Finland.
Canada Red and Canada White meet on the second day of the round robin on Friday, Nov. 3.
The gold and bronze medal games are scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 11.
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