Dalgleish looks to bring complete game to Napanee

Serving as captain of the Kingston U-18 AA Canadians last year, Jay Dalgleish had a great year in a new environment. The Napanee Raiders are banking on a repeat performance.

In his final U-18 season, the Kingston native considered making the step to junior last year after seven years in the Greater Kingston AAA system. Instead, he joined some good friends and took the mantle of leadership as they worked to win games.

“I was proud to serve as team captain, and I felt I grew a lot both as a player and a leader,” he said. “I also felt like I grew more confidence in my game as I was able to try new things and accept different roles playing in a new environment.”

Dalgleish, 17,  uses his 6’2, 180-lb frame to play a physical game and protect the puck well. The right winger has been a steady offensive contributor throughout his minor hockey career.

“I see myself as a gritty 200-foot player who can also help out on the defensive end,” he said. “I also see myself as a player who has a high hockey IQ which allows me to read and jump on plays.”

Coach Ben Hagerman thought Dalgleish lived up to the positive scouting reports during his first skate at prospect camp this year, seeking to bring the right winger on board.

“Jay is a reliable two-way forward with a high offensive upside. He skates well and has a knack of getting into scoring areas, quietly beating defenders.”

Moreover, he impressed with intangibles that are central to the Raiders’ evaluation process.
“Jay’s character and coachability will make his transition from minor hockey to junior seamless and we are so glad he chose the Raiders,” Hagerman said.

Soon to graduate from Kingston’s Holy Cross Secondary School, Dalgleish was looking for a good environment to balance hockey and pursuit of an economics degree at Queen’s University. He experienced the Raiders’ run to the PJHL semifinal and received positive reviews from potential teammates — including Logan Vale who played Team Canada ball hockey alongside Dalgliesh and Raiders alum Adam Nuttall who also played while in the economics program.

“I chose Napanee because of its winning culture, supportive community and welcoming coaches,” Dalgleish said. “My goal in Napanee this year is to contribute as much as I can to help the team win the Schmalz Cup.”