Brandon, MB (CKLQ) – A boyhood dream come true – that’s how Wheat Kings forward Stelio Mattheos described pulling a Carolina Hurricanes jersey on for the first time last week.
The Winnipeg, MB native was a 3rd Round Draft Pick of the Hurricanes in this summer’s NHL Entry Draft and took part in the clubs annual Rookie Tournament in Traverse City, Michigan, September 8-12.
“It’s always been my dream to play in the NHL,” Mattheos said after practice on Tuesday. “To go there and get a taste of it, it really motivates you to take your game to the next level.”
In 69 games last year, the former 2014 1st overall Bantam Draft Pick scored 26 times and added 35 helpers for a career-high 61 points; doubling his 16/17 production.
Mattheos also scored four times in five games at the World U-18 Championship this summer while being named an Alternate Captain on the Canadian squad.
Screen Shot 2017-09-19 at 6.43.14 PMDespite getting a taste of the NHL lifestyle, Mattheos is ready for the home opener.
“It’s a really good feeling to be back and see all my teammates again. It’s time to get back to work here and get a start on the season.”
While the Tampa Bay Lightning and Florida Panthers moved their preseason Rookie Camp to different locations because of Hurricane Irma, Mattheos said the hockey club stayed put and rode out the tropical storm.
Raleigh is located approximately 280 miles from Charleston, South Carolina – an area that was hit with four-foot swells of ocean water and flooding which killed one and injured several others.
With the home opener just a few days away, Mattheos is looking to make a statement in his third season with the club.
“I just want to keep getting better,” he added. “I want to show that Carolina made a good pick in me, try to improve throughout the year and help the team win.”
Mattheos and the Wheat Kings welcome the Regina Pats on Friday in the Home Opener. Tickets are available now at the Keystone Centre Box Office and online.