On the heels of the very abrupt end to the hockey season, we saw some quiet, but very exciting action last weekend.
The OHL Draft was held, virtually Saturday morning, and like in past years, the Nighthawks had a reason to watch.
Local talents Owen Beck and Dalyn Wakely have gotten notice by the OHL and were both drafted this past weekend.
The OHL is the #1 Development League in the world for the NHL, and recent stars who have gone this route include; Connor McDavid, Mitch Marner, John Tavares and Drew Doughty.
Owen, a grade 10, St. Mary's High School student was chose 9th in the 2nd round of the draft by the Mississauga Steelheads. He has been playing AAA hockey for the Quinte Red Devils since his Bantam year. Prior to that, Owen was a member of the 2016, Northumberland Nighthawks Peewee OMHA and OHL winning team. His skill and leadership was a vital part of the teams success. The entire Nighthawks organization, especially his 2004 teammates are all very proud.
Dalyn Wakely, also a grade 10, St. Mary's student was selected 10th in the 2nd round by the North Bay Battalion. Dalyn played his early years playing for the Port Hope Phantoms before making the jump to playing AAA hockey with the Quinte Red Devils. Although he was never a Nighthawk, he is a local boy with a ton of talent and we are very proud and wish him all the best.
This is such an exciting time for both of these boys, their families, their AAA clubs and their old "alma mater" the Northumberland Nighthawks and the Port Hope Phantoms.
Having two local players, receive such recognition, is a testament to hockey in Northumberland and surrounding areas. The OMHA boasted having 81 players selected in the Draft!!!
Every year, some of our Nighthawks "graduate" and advance to one of our AAA centres. As hard as it can be for our teams to lose such talent, it is an amazing source of pride as we watch these kids move on, continue to develop and get their well earned call ups.
We are all very proud of you Owen and Dalyn, your hard work, determination, and obvious, amazing talent has been noticed! We wish you all the best at your teams main selection training camp.