CORNWALL, Ont. – Hockey Canada, in conjunction with the Canadian Junior Hockey League, announced Thursday that Greater Sudbury Cubs forward Samuel Assinewai has been named to the Team Canada East roster for upcoming World Junior A Challenge in Cornwall, Ont.
The 18-year-old Little Current, Ont., product was one of 22 players selected to play for Canada East, following a three-day selection camp that wrapped up Wednesday in Cornwall. The WJAC itself begins Sunday and runs through December 18.
“This is a tremendous accomplishment for not only Samuel, but the entire Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League,” stated league commissioner Robert Mazzuca.
“Anytime you have an opportunity to play for your country, on the international hockey stage, is something one should truly be proud of,” added Mazzuca.
“We wish Samuel and the rest of Team Canada East well at this prestigious event.”
Playing at over a point-per-game clip for the Cubs in NOJHL action so far this season, Assinewai has produced 15 to date, with Greater Sudbury, in 11 outings with five goals and 10 assists. Two of his tallies have been game-winners.
He had also registered points in each of his last eight games, prior to heading to Cornwall for the team’s selection camp.
Canada East’s first game at the WJAC is Sunday as they take on Latvia at 1 p.m., in Cornwall.
Prior to the start of play however, Canada East will face off against the United States at 7 p.m. on Friday in a pre-tournament contest.
For more information on the World Junior A Challenge, visit the official event website at hockeycanada.ca/wjac.
Photo credit: Sudbury Light Event Photography
