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Rivers product makes immediate impact with Queens

By Robin Wark

A dream debut became reality when Jordyn Veitch scored a goal in her first regular-season collegiate hockey game.

The daughter of Rivers’ Ryan and Christa Veitch lit the lamp for the Red Deer Polytechnic women’s hockey team on Oct. 4 against Medicine Hat College. It was the RDP Queens’ first Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference home game of the season and Veitch’s first regular-season collegiate game.

“I had a good start to the game as I find I've done well under pressure,” Veitch said. “I won the puck battle along the wall and just saw an opening and took it. It was a very exciting, proud moment to have had and a good way to start the season.”

The goal sparked a Queens’ comeback. Before Veitch’s second period marker, they trailed 3-0. Veitch later assisted on the tying goal. RDP went on to win 4-3.

In her first year, Veitch helped her team advance to the ACAC championship series. A former U18 AAA Yellowhead Chiefs standout, Veitch cracked the lineup for 16 games with the talented Queens.

“I have found it pretty adjustable to transition from U18 to college hockey,” she said. “Obviously, getting scratched can be hard at times, but it just pushes you to be a better player that next game. Practicing every day at 6 a.m. is also one thing that took a while to adjust to, but it has only made us all a better team. Being a rookie on a new team can also be tough, but I’ve found that the compete level and environment and the girls have made me grow every day to be a better player on and off the ice.”

In her first year, Veitch appreciated

various aspects of life at her Alberta school.

“One thing I’ve really enjoyed from studying and playing here has been all the people I’ve met and the new relationships I’ve gained that I will have for a lifetime — not only on the ice but people that are in my program who have come out and supported me at my games. Having strong relationships on the team and in school has really helped me with being away from home. It’s like having a second family and truly helps you get through the year with all the support the team and new friendships give you.”

Veitch is studying education. She said, “I have really enjoyed my practicum and the classes I am in that really show the true experience of becoming a teacher. My practicum has been by far my favourite part. Getting into a classroom and being able to learn from real experiences is so helpful for the future.”

Throughout her first season with the Queens, Veitch was strongly backed by her parents and her older brother Layton.

“My family’s support is something I am most grateful for,” she said. “My parents have taken time to come out and see me as much as they can, even if I’m not playing, which is special knowing they support me no matter what. My dad has always been a big role model for me in hockey, so it has been hard being away, but he always finds time to call or text whenever I need. Moving away from home can be hard, but I’ve really enjoyed my experience here and have adjusted really well and having secure family support from both parents has been a huge blessing.”