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By Ben Tompkins

Graduated Mustang

Kotai commits to UBC Thunderbirds

Jun 9, 2025 | 5:16 PM

Former Melfort Mustangs forward Reilley Kotai has found his next place to play hockey.

The Abbotsford, BC native has become the newest member of the University of British Columbia (UBC) Thunderbirds.

“It’s definitely exciting. I’ve watched the UBC team growing up, so it was definitely a full circle moment for me to commit to them. I’m definitely excited for this next journey,” Kotai told northeastNOW.

“They’ve had some really good years recently. Their program is just getting better and better, and they have great players there. Aside from just the fact that I’ll be playing really close to home, I wanted to go to a good team that has a chance to win, so that was part of the reason for my commitment as well. I’m excited to go there and hopefully help them win.”

Kotai spent just this past season with Melfort as a 20-year-old, however, in just one year, he made a massive impact.

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Kotai led the SJHL regular season in both goals and points, and did some winning as well, helping the Stangs to their second straight Canterra Seeds Cup and National Silver Medal.

“My time in Melfort meant a lot, through all the highs and lows, it was a lot of fun and definitely the best year of hockey I’ve ever had. I think the SJ prepared me both physically and mentally for this next jump, and my game changed so much in this league. Blevins made me play a fast and hard style of hockey, and I learned how to play really consistent,” added Kotai.

“U Sports is good hockey, and it’s on the way to the next level and playing professionally, which is my goal. So, it’ll be a good step towards that. It’ll be a big jump, but it will excel my game so hopefully I can come into UBC and make an immediate impact, and over the years develop into a fast player that can translate well into the pro game, which I believe I can.”

Kotai has yet to pick what courses he will be taking as a Thunderbird student athlete, but mentioned that a business degree is always in a hockey player’s back pocket.

The Blue and Green organization congratulated Kotai in their press release, stating the ‘natural goal scorer with a high compete level’ made an immediate and lasting impact with the club. They also thanked him for his contributions and wished him all the best in his future endeavours.

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Ben.Tompkins@pattisonmedia.com

On X @BenTompkins_8