Crosbie learning and growing every game
At the 2016 WHL Bantam Draft, Kyle Crosbie wasn’t sure where he would end up, he has just finished putting together a 31 point (16G, 15A) campaign in 33 games played with Airdrie Xtreme Bantam AAA (AMBHL). His name was called in the eighth round by the Kelowna Rockets, Crosbie was elated to have been drafted by the storied organization.
“The Rockets weren’t a team that I had talked to ahead of the draft,” said Crosbie. “It was a little bit of a surprise when they drafted me, but I was so excited to have been selected by such a great organization.”
Crosbie knew that he had his work cut out for him, being a later pick. Eighth round picks don’t always turn into players who suit up every night, but Crosbie didn’t let that deter him from his dream.
“As a later pick, my mindset was that the draft is only a moment in time. It’s what you do after it that really counts. I don’t think that I ever doubted my ability, being a late pick it was more motivation for me to show that I could’ve gone higher,” said Crosbie.
The following season he played with Edge School Elite 15s (CSSHL E15). Edge School in Calgary, aims to prepare students for either post-secondary education or a career in their chosen sport. The school has produced notable high-end talents such as Thomas Hickey, Tyler Myers, Matt Dumba, Jake Bean and Jaret Anderson-Dolan. With the Elite 15s, Crosbie had more than a point per game average with 30 points (12G, 18A) in 28 games.
Last season his production was just shy of a point per game again, he put up 33 points (14G, 19A) in 35 games with Edge School Prep (CSSHL). He was also able to dress in his first WHL game against his hometown Calgary Hitmen at Prospera Place in October 2017.
Crosbie is the shortest player on the Rockets roster this season, he stands at just 5’8 and weighs a modest 148 pounds. When asked if he ever gets nervous playing against bigger and older players he said that his height is his advantage.
“I don’t get nervous anymore, it’s such a fast game now. I just need to use my speed and be evasive. I think I can do a pretty good job of getting into the corners and digging pucks out,” said Crosbie.
The 17-year-old rookie has earned the trust of the coaching staff, Crosbie has seen time on both the penalty kill and power play. In 32 games played so far this season, he has 7 points (5G, 2A). He scored a memorable goal against the Calgary Hitmen at the Saddledome in front of his friends and family back in December.
Kyle Crosbie knots it up at one!
🍎 @foote_nolan pic.twitter.com/QgIGVMiNB2— Kelowna Rockets (@Kelowna_Rockets) December 15, 2018
Off the ice, he was honoured for his commitment to education by being named one of WHL’s B.C. Division Academic Spotlight players for November.
“Kyle is a very well-rounded individual who capitalizes on situations that are made available to him, such as tutors and extra help made available by teachers,” said Darren Wishlow, Education Advisor for the Rockets.
Crosbie credits his confidence with his growth as a player this season, but says that he still has some growing to do to become to the player he wants to be.
“I think my confidence has changed mostly when it comes to my development. I’m still a smaller player; I definitely have to get a little bigger. But just knowing that I can play here and believing in my abilities when I go on the ice, I can execute,” said Crosbie.
You can see Crosbie and the Rockets play this Friday, January 4th, when they host the Prince George Cougars at Prospera Place. Tickets are on sale at selectyourtickets.com, at the Prospera Place box office or by phone at 250762-5050.
