Photo credit: Garrett James Photography
Victoria Grizzlies rookie Matthew Wood was one of 14 forwards named to Team Canada’s roster for the 2022 IIHF U18 World Championship, scheduled for Apr. 23 to May 1 in Landshut and Kaufbeuren, Germany
The 25-man roster was finalized in an announcement by Hockey Canada yesterday.
“We are excited to unveil the 25 players that will wear the Maple Leaf at the 2022 IIHF U18 World Championship and take on the challenge of winning a second-consecutive gold medal,” said Alan Millar, director of player personnel for Hockey Canada. “For many of these players, this is the first time they will represent their country in international competition, and we know they are excited for the opportunity to compete on the world stage.”
At just 17-years-old, Wood is coming off a season where he led the BCHL in scoring with 85 points, as well as goals with 45. Last week, he was named a First-Team All-Star and is also a finalist for the league’s Most Valuable Player Award.
Wood, who is committed to the University of Connecticut, is the first BCHL player to suit up at the U18s since Alex Newhook played at the 2019 tournament.
Team Canada is in Group A, along with Czechia, Germany and the United States. They start the tournament against the Americans on Apr. 23.
TSN will broadcast all of Canada’s round-robin games, as well as all elimination-round games in the tournament.
The Canadians are the defending champions after winning gold against Russia at last year’s tournament in Frisco, Texas.
Click here to view the entire Team Canada roster.
