The Neepawa Natives, proud members of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL), are happy to announce that defenseman Connor Smith has committed to play NCAA hockey for the Aurora Spartans of the NCHA, located in Aurora, Illinois.
Smith, of Santa Margarita, CA, recently completed his first season in Neepawa and the MJHL. He joined the Natives after a trade in October .
Smith instantly became a workhorse on the Natives blue line and in the community. He played a prominent role solidifying the defensive group both defensively as well as chipping in offensively. In the 49 games Smith played for Neepawa he compiled 6 goals and 17 assists for 23 points. Away from the rink, Smith was named the Natives 2019-2020 Defenseman of the Year
“Connor was a great acquisition for us in October,” said head coach Ken Pearson. “He played fantastic for us in all situations, and was an outstanding citizen in our community and a leader for our young defenseman.”
The Neepawa Natives organization would like to wish Connor success while attending Aurora University.