Hayden Paupanekis: From Norway House to the Memorial Cup
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Hayden Paupanekis: From Norway House to the Memorial Cup
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On this episode of My Hockey Hero, we celebrate the journey of Hayden Paupanekis, a six-foot-five center from the Norway House Cree Nation in Manitoba and draft pick of the Montreal Canadiens (2025 NHL Draft, 4th round, 69th overall). Hayden reflects on learning to skate at five in Winnipeg’s minor hockey system, the support of his family and community, and the pride he takes in being a role model for Indigenous youth.
He shares what it was like to be drafted into the WHL by the Spokane Chiefs, the challenges of moving away from home, the impact of his billet family, and adjusting to the business side of junior hockey. Hayden also talks about his offseason training, his experience at the NHL combine in Buffalo, the feedback from Montreal, and his transition to the Kelowna Rockets as they chase the Memorial Cup. We wrap up with rapid-fire questions on his role models, pregame rituals, and advice for young players about hard work and having a growth mindset.
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