Defenceman Riley Little will join the Okanagan Lakers of the BCIHL this fall as he takes the next step in his hockey career to the post-secondary level. (Martin Martinson/battlefordsNOW Staff)

By Martin Martinson

The Next Chapter

North Stars Little commits to Okanagan Lakers

Apr 13, 2022 | 3:00 PM

North Stars blue liner, Riley Little will be heading west this fall for the next chapter in his hockey career, as the Saskatoon product has announced his committment to the Okanagan Lakers of the B.C. Intercollegiate Hockey League (BCIHL) for the fall of 2022.

Based in Kelowna, B.C., the program features players from both Okanagan College, where Little will attend, and UBC Okanagan.

Little said having the opportunity to take the next step in his hockey career at the post-secondary level with a program like the Lakers’ is something he’s very much looking forward to.

“It’s an honour and a privilege; I’ve always wanted to pursue my hockey career as long as I can and I think doing that in Kelowna is a pretty cool opportunity,” Little said. “I wanted to stick in Canada and Kelowna is definitely a nice spot. I have a couple of buddies that play out there and I’ve heard nothing but good things about the team, the school and the town, so it was pretty easy decision.”

In the classroom, Little will enroll in Business.

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Riley Little brings poise and two-way acumen to the Lakers’ defense. (Martin Martinson/battlefordsNOW Staff)

A veteran of 100 career junior games split between the North Stars and Weyburn Red Wings of the SJHL and Waywayseecappo Wolverines of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, Little established himself as a go-to matchup defenceman on the Stars during his time with the team, while serving as an alternate captain during the 2021-22 season.

Head coach of the North Stars, Brayden Klimosko said he’s looking forward to seeing Little continue his hockey career with this next chapter.

“He’s a great teammate and a great leader, and I’m looking forward to seeing him continue his hockey career past Junior A,” Klimosko said. “He’s very steady and I thought his game only got better and more confident as the year went on, and I’m looking forward to seeing that continue and follow him in the Okanagan.”

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Martin.Martinson@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @MartyMartyPxP1