Nick Vopat joins the Summerland Jets as a left-shot forward who brings speed, physicality, and plenty of Junior A experience to the team’s inaugural roster.
Originally from Cranbrook, B.C., Vopat grew up playing minor hockey in his hometown before continuing his development with Kootenay Hockey Academy and the Osoyoos Coyotes. He returns to the KIJHL after spending the past few seasons with Osoyoos, where he became known for his physical, high-energy style of play and was recognized as a fan favourite during the 2024/25 season.
Known by teammates as “Vops,” Vopat describes himself as a physical, hard-working playmaker who likes to play at speed and bring intensity every shift. His strengths include skating, physicality, and hockey IQ, while his focus this season is on adding more goal scoring to his game. Last season, he recorded three goals and 12 assists.
One of Vopat’s favourite moments in hockey came when he scored his first junior goal. Now, he is looking forward to a fresh opportunity in Summerland and the chance to help build a new team and its connection with the community.
For Vopat, what stood out about the Jets was the positive feedback he heard about both the coaching staff and Summerland itself. He is excited to play in front of a community that cares about its team and wants to bring fast, physical, smart hockey to the rink every night.
Jets fans can expect a relentless forecheck, high pace, physical play, and plenty of compete. Vopat also wants to be a positive leader within the group and a teammate others can count on.
This season, his goals are simple. Help the Jets win games, reach the playoffs, and make a strong run while giving Summerland a team it can get behind.
