Red Deer Polytechnic Hockey acknowledged at the ACAC level

Photo (l-r): Top Row - Avery Lajeunesse, Kyla Hansel; Bottom Row - Jacob Wozney, Chance Longjohn, Tanner Sklaruk

Five student-athletes from the Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) Kings and Queens Hockey teams have been recognized by the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) for their impactful play during the 2023/2024 season.  

Red Deer's Avery Lajeunesse and Stettler's Kyla Hansel have made the ACAC Women's Hockey First All-Conference team. Jacob Wozney was selected to the ACAC Men's Hockey First All-Conference team. Chance Longjohn and Tanner Sklaruk were named to the ACAC Men's Hockey Second All-Conference team.  

"Avery, Kyla, Jacob, Chance and Tanner had tremendous seasons for their respective teams," says Randy Stewart, Manager, Athletics and Student Life. "I want to congratulate them on their accomplishments and for receiving All-Conference recognition. I also want to thank both the Kings and Queens Hockey coaching staffs for helping our student-athletes develop as hockey players and as contributors to our communities." 

Both Lajeunesse and Hansel helped to guide the RDP Queens (19-6) to second place in the standings during the regular season. Lajeunesse, who is a Bachelor of Education Elementary student, led the Queens with 21 points and ranked fifth in the league with 11 goals. The RDP Queens captain was an important player and leader, demonstrating an incredible work ethic and contributing to the positive team culture. Third-year Hansel led the Queens' defenders with 12 points. Hansel, who is a Pharmacy Technician Diploma student, scored two of her six goals on the power play.  

The RDP Queens were edged by the NAIT Ooks in the best-of-three semi-final.  

Wozney, Longjohn and Sklaruk helped to lead the Red Deer Polytechnic Kings (15-9) to second in ACAC Men's Hockey during regular season competition. Wozney's 30 points tied for third in the league. The Bachelor of Education Secondary student scored two of his league-tying 15 goals on the power play. Wozney added a pair of goals shorthanded.  

Longjohn, who is the Kings captain, was a key contributor to the RDP Kings. He produced 23 points while playing a defensively responsible game and providing valuable leadership. Sklaruk, who is a second year defenceman from Stony Plain, accumulated nine points in 24 games. The smooth skating defender continually improved his game throughout the season and helped to quickly transition the puck up the ice.  

The Red Deer Polytechnic Kings currently lead the Concordia University Thunder two games to none in the best-of-five ACAC Men's Hockey Championship final.