Tyson Lautard of the Nelson Leafs has committed to the Vancouver Island University Mariners in the B.C. Intercollegiate Hockey League for the 2023-24 season.
Lautard had 29 points in 40 Kootenay International Junior Hockey League games last season for the Leafs. He added five points in six KIJHL Teck Cup playoff games. Over three seasons with the Leafs, Lautard played 84 career regular season games and had 17 goals and 58 points, along with 11 points in 30 playoff games.
Lautard said in a news release he’s honoured to join a great organization such as the Mariners.
“I’m very excited to start the season and do whatever possible to help our team succeed this year,” said Lautard. “I would also like to thank the Leafs organization as they put a lot of effort into all of our players’ success, helping us move forward with hockey and life. Our coaching staff was always pushing us to be our best.”
Leafs head coach Briar McNaney said Lautard was “an absolute treat to coach.”
“Seeing his maturity progress over such a short time span, I was very impressed. Tyson was one of the most talented players I have had the pleasure coaching, and he will fit every style of coaching well. He deserved every bit of collegiate attention he received.”
