From skating as a four-year-old in the old Parksville Arena to the BCHL with the Victoria Grizzlies, Jaden Schmeisser has earned a scholarship to play at Minnesota State University (Mankato) starting this fall.
Schmeisser, 21, from Qualicum Beach, will be joining the NCAA Division 1 ranks as he suits up for the Mavericks this fall. Starting his major midget career with the North Island Silvertips, Schmeisser caught the eye of the hometown team and suited up for the Save-On-Foods Oceanside Generals for a total of 24 games (including playoffs).
Never one to shy away from the physical side of the game, the 6’2” defenseman racked up 79 penalty minutes to go along with his 12 points in his first full season with the Victoria Grizzlies of the BCHL in 2012 – 2013. Schmeisser spent last season (2013-14) split between the West Kelowna Warriors, also of the BCHL, and then went back to the Grizzlies to finish off his season, where he tallied 24 points in 29 games.
The 2014 playoffs were really where Schmeisser shined brightly, tallying 12 points in 14 games for the Grizzlies and was named the Grizzlies top defenseman and playoff performer for his efforts. His performance through the later part of the season and in to the playoffs brought some attention his way, ultimately earning him his scholarship through hard work and dedication.
“The team was ecstatic when we heard it because it was an 11th-hour job, something he earned in the last part of the season,” Grizzlies former head coach Craig Didmon said of Schmeisser. “The playoff run really helped springboard an opportunity to show his wares. He was the best defenseman on the ice many nights through the last half and into the playoffs.”