It was an exciting day for the Victoria Royals today as they signed not one, but two local defenceman – better yet, the pair are identical twin brothers!
Signed to WHL Standard Agreements today, the pair were selected in the 2019 WHL Bantam Draft last month, where Jason Spizawka was drafted 19th overall – following this, his identical twin brother Ryan was selected 137th in the seventh round.
The 2004-born pair both played their last seasons at Yale Hockey Academy in Abbotsford, though they hail from Victoria originally.
Jason Spizawka recorded 25 points (2 goals, 23 assists) in his 28 contests last season, to go along with 26 penalty minutes – his 23 assists were tied for the second most on his team. Jason also appeared in five postseason matchups for Yale and helped the club capture the CSSHL Bantam Prep Championship.
Royals’ president and general manager Cameron Hope says, “Jason is a smart prospect defenceman who is an excellent skater. He has very good vision and plays a strong game in all zones. We are excited to welcome Jason to the Royals’ family,”
Defencemen Jason & Ryan Spizawka have signed WHL Standard Player Agreements with the @victoriaroyals!
DETAILS 📰 | https://t.co/nuaBU1ynoU pic.twitter.com/d6GlQ68yie
— The WHL (@TheWHL) June 6, 2019
Jason’s brother Ryan spent the 2018-19 season as a defenceman for the Yale Hockey Academy as well, and over 28 contests for the team, he collected 20 points (8 goals, 12 assists). Ryan also contributed to 2018-19 CSSHL Bantam Prep Championship win with Yale.
“Ryan is a mobile defenceman who has shown the ability to play forward,” Hope said. “He knows how to be effective at both ends of the ice, he moves the puck well, and I think we are just starting to see his talents. We are pleased to have him join our organization.”
Both Jason and Ryan played their minor hockey careers for the Victoria Racquet Club Minor Hockey Association.
