By Joel van der Veen

VICTORIA, B.C. — A hard week at training camp came with some great news for Davidson’s Dean McNabb.

The 16-year-old goalie signed a standard player agreement with the Victoria Royals of the Western Hockey League on Aug. 29.

He was scheduled to join the team on a road trip for its first three pre-season games this past weekend.

Dean is the youngest child of Kim and Jeannine McNabb of Davidson, measuring six feet, two inches, and weighing 174 lbs.

He was in Victoria in late August taking part in the Royals’ rookie camp when he received the news.

McNabb said he was happy to take the next step with the organization, having been selected by the Royals in last year’s WHL draft. He was a third-round pick, coming 61st overall.

He described the training camp as hard work, with practices, goaltending sessions and games each day.

“You’ve got to keep up and work hard,” he said, adding he’s building his skills and also working to develop patience and confidence.

As one of two rookie goalies, McNabb acknowledged that the next few games will be an uphill battle for him, as he seeks to prove he can compete at the WHL level.

“I am the youngest guy so I shouldn’t be expecting too much,” he said. “For a 16-year-old it’s a bit harder.”

For the full story, please see the Sept. 5 edition of The Davidson Leader, or call 306-567-2047 to subscribe today.