It’s been quite the year for Yorkton Terriers defenceman Thomas Ries.
The Humboldt, SK product suited up for Team Canada West earlier this season, capturing a silver medal. He then played a key role in helping the Terriers reach the Canterra Seeds Cup Final—and now, he’s been nominated for CJHL Defenceman of the Year.
That recognition comes as no surprise to those around Yorkton who have watched the steady, fearless presence on the blue line over the past two seasons.
Ries puts his body on the line night in and night out, finishing among the team leaders in blocked shots, while also taking a major step forward offensively. This past season, he led all SJHL defencemen with 48 points, including 16 goals. He elevated his game even further in the playoffs, scoring eight times during the Terriers’ postseason run.
Ries spoke about the honour.
“It’s pretty exciting to be nominated as one of the top defencemen in the country,” said Ries. “Winning it would be a huge accomplishment. I couldn’t have had the success I did without the group we had this year, so I just want to say thank you to the team for all their support.”
Over his time in a Terriers uniform, the 20-year-old assistant captain has compiled 81 points in 109 regular-season SJHL games, along with 14 points in 26 career playoff contests.
He is eligible to return to Yorkton for his final season of junior hockey.
