The Yorkton Terriers continue to strengthen their blue line this offseason with the addition of defenceman Kyler Zulyniak.
The Cartier, Manitoba product joins the Terriers after spending the past three seasons with the Interlake Lightning U18 AAA program. Over 137 career games, the 6-foot-1 defender recorded 52 points while accumulating 161 penalty minutes, showcasing a blend of physicality and competitiveness.
When describing his game, Zulyniak says he prides himself on being a reliable defender first and foremost, while still possessing offensive upside.
“I think I am a hard Defenceman to play against,” said Zulyniak. “I value defence before offence and like to throw the body.”
Head Coach and General Manager Emery Olauson echoed those traits
“Kyler is a big, physical Defenceman who brings a lot of grit to the game,” said Olauson. “We like his physicality, and he’s very comfortable playing both the right and left side. He served as a captain for his team, and we believe he’ll be a great addition to both our dressing room and the Yorkton community.”
Zulyniak said Yorkton’s playoff run and team culture were major factors in his decision to join the Terriers.
“The Terriers’ competitive run in the playoffs this past year and the overall team aspect they had on the ice stood out to me,” said Zulyniak. “Being part of that environment will help push my game to become more competitive and hard-working while maintaining a team-first mindset.”
As he prepares to make the jump to the Junior A level, Zulyniak is eager to embrace the challenge that comes with competing against older and stronger players.
“What excites me most about making the jump to Junior A is the level of compete and intensity on the ice,” he said. “Playing against bigger and stronger guys will be a challenge, but I feel like I’ll be able to adapt with my style of play.”
The Yorkton Terriers would like to welcome Kyler and the entire Zulyniak family to the organization.
