Graduate Player Showcase: Jakob Kalin

With his Red Wing career broken up by both a pandemic and a brief trade to the Renfrew Wolves, some may not realize Jakob Kalin was in fact a three year Red Wing. When he was reacquired from the MJHL however, Kalin was instantly one of the most exciting Red Wings to watch with a nose for the next and the ability for highlight reel assists.

During the month of January when the Red Wings were starting to climb the standings back up into the playoffs, Kalin was the driving force behind that run with 8 goals, 6 assists, and one of his two shootout winners on the season during that stretch. As one of the smaller guys on the ice, Kalin was not afraid to take a beating in front of the net to get to a rebound or tip the puck, and many of his goals this season came from in tight despite his speed and hands that were regularly on display.

Kalin didn’t start the season with a letter on his sweater, but after an early season trade and Mathieu Gautier heading to the NLL opened up two of the assistant captain spots, Kalin had already proved on and off the ice that he deserved it. Along with being a leader on the ice, Kalin was a leader in our community as well.

“Jakob was our Community Ambassador this season. He was a staple in the community with minor hockey, he ran the breakfast club all season and became very close with all the kids. He did this all while scoring 22 goals this season.” -Head Coach Cody Mapes.

Just days before this article, Jakob Kalin has officially committed to playing with the Niagara University Purple Eagles in the ACHA Div. I. Congratulations on all your success Jakob and your commitment to Niagara.