Wassermann wins in prospects game

Jacob Wassermann’s rookie year of junior hockey has been a whirlwind to say the least.

The 17 year-old Humboldt product has seen his Western Hockey League rights traded, he’s competed for a roster spot at the World Junior ‘A’ Challenge, played in a game for the Memorial Cup hosting Regina Pats, took part in the CJHL Prospects game plus been outstanding in the crease for his hometown Broncos.

Currently flying home from Mississauga, Ont. after the prospects game that featured the top 40 junior ‘A’ prospects in the nation, Wassermann said his most recent experience was memorable.

“I got to play in the second half, I made some big saves. It was a fun time,” he said from the Winnipeg airport.

Wassermann’s team Team West picked up a 5-2 victory. Steinbach’s Matt Thiessen and Wassermann combined to stop 19 of 21 shots in the win, they each allowed a goal.

Prior to returning to Humboldt from the Pats, Wassermann was excellent making 36 saves in a 3-2 win over the Melfort Mustangs Saturday night. He was in Regina for about three weeks including over the trade deadline. Wassermann said there was plenty of nervousness inside the dressing room.

“You could tell there was lots of stress in the room. Lots of guys suspected they maybe were on their way out. They had told me they didn’t want to move me but you never know,” he said.

He took the experience as another learning curve, just like he did practicing everyday with the likes of Sam Steel and Josh Mahura.

“I got to face those guys, learn how they run their systems, get to know the guys better, it was a great time,” Wassermann said.

Moving into the stretch run of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League season Wassermann will now be relied upon to carry the Broncos down the wire into the post season. He said he’s focused and looking forward to potentially bringing a title back to Humboldt.

“Obviously you always want to win but it would be extra special if I can win in my hometown,” he said.

The quest continues Wednesday, the green and gold travel to Macklin for a neutral site game against Kindersley. The Broncos have won three straight. Face-off is 7:30 p.m.