RED DEER – This month’s Alumni Spotlight focuses on Jordan Wyton, formerly of the Lethbridge AAA Hurricanes.
Jordan came up through the Lethbridge Minor Hockey system, and said he go into the game when he was five or six years old, mainly because his brother was already playing, and his dad, who he points to as his biggest influence, was a coach.
After a season with the Lethbridge U15 AAA Golden Hawks, Jordan was drafted 187th overall by the Moose Jaw Warriors in the 2009 Western Hockey League Draft.
Prior to the WHL Draft, Jordan was selected to play for Team South at the 2008 Alberta Cup, which he points to as one of his favourite memories from his minor hockey days.
“We placed third,” he said. “Afterwards, I was given other opportunities in hockey, and in life, from this experience.”
Jordan went on to play for the Lethbridge U18 AAA Hurricanes in 2009-2010, before making the move to Junior Hockey. He suited up for the Warriors for three seasons, playing in the WHL from 2010-2013, finishing his Junior Hockey career with the Brooks Bandits in 2013-14.
“The team atmosphere and the organized chaos of individuals working together towards a common goal are my favourite things about hockey,” Jordan said. “Minor hockey taught me grit, determination, a never-quit mindset, and an ability to persevere.”
Hockey wasn’t the only sport Jordan focused on growing up, and he attributes being a multi-sport athlete to his success in hockey.
“During the off-season, I played golf competitively and recreationally,” he said. “I also played baseball, racquetball, and numerous other sports. These activities helped with my fitness, hand-eye coordination, and athleticism.”
With his playing days behind him, Jordan is now a Police Officer with the Medicine Hat Police Service, and gives a lot of credit to hockey for where he is today.
“Hockey helped me receive a scholarship – which I used to get educated, coaching opportunities, life skills, and in my current professional career,” he said.
Jordan’s advice to young, aspiring hockey players is to trust the process.
“Even when times are tough and you feel like others are excelling faster than you, continue to show up,” he said. “Bring a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and opportunities will arise.”