Luke Niedermayer joins the Summerland Jets as a left-shot defenceman with strong South Okanagan ties and four years of development with Okanagan Hockey Academy.
Originally from Naramata, B.C., Niedermayer grew up playing minor hockey in Penticton before spending the past four seasons with OHA. Last season with OHA U18 in the CSSHL, he recorded two goals and five assists for seven points in 23 games, along with 12 penalty minutes.
Known by teammates as “Nieds,” Niedermayer describes himself as a stay-at-home defenceman who takes pride in being dependable in his own end. Strong skating, smart puck movement, and defensive awareness are key parts of his game, and this season he is focused on becoming more involved offensively while continuing to build on the foundation that has made him a reliable presence on the blue line.
Niedermayer already knows what it is like to play for Jets Head Coach Robert Dirk, who coached him with OHA U18 last season. The opportunity to continue working with Dirk, stay close to home, and be part of a brand-new organization made Summerland a natural fit.
Jets fans can expect fast puck movement, strong defensive-zone play, physicality, and a player who puts the team first. Niedermayer hopes to help the Jets improve throughout their inaugural season while continuing to grow his own offensive game.
Hockey also runs in the family, with Niedermayer’s dad having played professionally. Away from the rink, Luke enjoys biking, hiking, boating, and playing soccer.
For a player who grew up just down the road in Naramata, joining the Jets is a chance to take the next step in his hockey career while helping build something new close to home.
