Seven WHLers Set To Represent Canada At The 2024 U18 IIHF World Championship
This year's tournament takes place in Finland from April 25 to May 5.
Photo by Jeremy Champagne/WHL - Seven WHLers Set To Represent Canada At The 2024 U18 IIHF World ChampionshipTeam Canada has announced their roster for the upcoming 2024 U18 IIHF World Championship, with seven WHLers included in the squad. The group is led by Gavin McKenna, who is one of four 2007-born players on the roster. Both Berkly Catton and Cayden Lindstrom were invited but will be unable to participate due to injury. Last year, Canada won Bronze at the tournament and will be looking for their first Gold since 2021, when they were led by Connor Bedard, Logan Stankoven and Olen Zellweger.
The WHL will also be represented on the coaching staff. Ryan Smith of the Spokane Chiefs will serve as an assistant coach, while Dan De Palma of the Kamloops Blazers will serve as the goaltending coach. The support staff also includes athletic therapist Jimmy McKnight of the Edmonton Oil Kings and Dr. Michael Conrad of the Victoria Royals.
WHL players set to participate for Team Canada:
Harrison Brunicke- Kamloops Blazers
Charlie Elick- Brandon Wheat Kings
Reese Hamilton- Calgary Hitmen
Gavin McKenna- Medicine Hat Tigers
Roger McQueen- Brandon Wheat Kings
Ryder Ritchie- Prince Albert Raiders
Carson Wetsch- Calgary Hitmen
There is still space for Team Canada to add to their roster before heading over to Finland. This could include players who have been eliminated from the second round and are looking to give their 2024 NHL Draft stock a boost before the combine. Canada's first game is scheduled for April 25, where they will take on last year's Silver Medalists, Team Sweden.
Team Canada's Schedule:
April 25 vs Sweden, 9:00 am PT
April 26 vs Czechia, 9:00 am PT
April 28 vs Switzerland, 9:00 am PT
April 30 vs Kazakhstan, 9:00 am PT
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