Some opportunities are simply too good to pass up.
Okotokian Conyr Hellyer has opted to continue to play hockey at the next level without switching locales as the Bow Mark Oilers forward signed his letter of intent to play in the AJHL with the Okotoks Oilers in 2021-22.
“Playing in front of your hometown is big for me, I think it’s a very cool opportunity,” said Hellyer, an alternate captain on the Bow Mark Oilers. “Growing up watching the Oilers over the years, you see them as a young kid and just think that’s amazing. To be part of that organization with such a good reputation, such good coaching with Tyler Deis up front is super exciting.
“It was really a no-brainer for me.”
The 16-year-old forward pointed to a recent Oilers graduate as one who sticks out as a role model, one who just had his name called in the first round of the NHL Draft by the Edmonton Oilers.
“Dylan Holloway, he’s a great player,” Hellyer added. “I wasn’t a big guy for points up until last year or two years ago so I think following in his footsteps is where I want to be and hopefully getting that development from the Oilers will help.”
Hellyer said he’s been in contact with the junior team since attending spring camp two years ago while keeping in touch with assistant coach Reid Hnatowich.
“I’ve been with Reid through some camps in the summer, we’ve had a good relationship over the years and I trusted him all the way through,” Hellyer said. “When they gave me the option to sign and do that commit with the LOI (letter of intent) I was very excited.”
The 2004-born forward brings pedigree and universally lauded character to the ice. Hellyer was a key cog in the Okotoks M-15 Oilers’ Sutter Cup South triumph last season, posting 25 goals and 61 points in 36 games while being named the league’s most valuable player.
“My dad and my mom are huge role models for me,” he said. “And I think I’ve just grown into that character through the years, trying to be as respectful as I can when we’re out as a team, in the dressing room cleaning up after.
“When you’ve got new guys on the team, feeling it out a bit, you’ve got to bring them in and having that character will bring a team together and help it succeed.”
Through four games with the Bow Mark Oilers, Hellyer recorded 1 goal and 2 assists with the team seeing limited action amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
The squad hasn’t had a game since early November.
For Hellyer, it’s been an opportunity to make the most of the time afforded to him.
“I’ve just taken advantage of it, trying to get to the gym, they’re closed now, but my dad has a gym downstairs with some weights,” he said. “I’ve been trying to put on some weight for next (season) to be able to succeed at that level.
“I’m trying to get as big as I can for next year to be able to compete. You’ve got an average of 185 weight in that league so if I can get somewhere near 175, 180 for next year I will be able to succeed.”
To stay in skating shape, Hellyer has used his immediate surroundings to his advantage, by getting out on the frozen lake at Crystal Shores.
As a team, the Bow Mark Oilers have stayed connected in the new year, working with the I Got Mind team for weekly seminars on mental health in the sports field.
“It’s for therapy, talking about leadership and how to get through these tough times,” he said. “That’s what’s really helped me.”
