Dauphin Kings fans had their first opportunity to watch Jeriah Shantz in-game action during the JoFo Cup earlier this month and they certainly weren’t disappointed.
Jeriah scored two goals in the game as he led Team White to a 4-2 win. And now just less than two weeks later, Shantz is finding himself enjoying Dauphin more and more as the days pass on.
He says getting the chance to join a new organization, make some new friends, and live in a beautiful city has been wonderful.
“It’s been great so far, everyone has welcomed me with open arms,” said Shantz. “We’ve had some great practices and my billets are tremendous. I’m looking forward to what’s next as a member of the Kings.”
The Kings will practice on Wednesday and Thursday ahead of Friday when they open their 2021-22 season against the Neepawa Titans at the Yellowhead Centre. While Jeriah has played in preseason games in the past, including with the Kings, Friday’s game will be his first regular-season contest.
Shantz says he’s looking forward to representing the crest as Dauphin looks to get off on the right foot.
“I think it’s safe to say that everyone is really pumped up,” said Shantz. “Everyone has been waiting a long time to play in a meaningful game so there is a lot of excitement and we’re doing everything we can here at practice to make sure we’re ready for this weekend.”
After Friday, Dauphin will return to Credit Union Place on Saturday as they play their first home game since November 1, 2020, a stretch of 321 days.
Get to know Jeriah:
Where do you come from? Hawkesville, Ontario. It’s a small town just about 45-60 minutes away from Toronto.
What are your hobbies during the summer? Hockey is huge to me. Really anytime I can get on the ice, I’ll be out there. I also love playing ball hockey and roller hockey with my friends.
Many hockey players like to golf, do you? I enjoy golf but I’m not great. I just like being outside with my friends, it’s always a great time.
Who are your favourite professional teams in the CFL, NFL, NHL, and MLB? Toronto Argonauts, San Francisco 49ers, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Toronto Blue Jays.
As we continue to look ahead to Friday, Jeriah hopes to become a player that can average a point-per-game. Although he understands that may not happen right away, he’s looking forward to doing whatever it takes to help the team win and in turn, help himself succeed.
Following his two-goal performance in the JoFo Cup, Jeriah added another goal in his first MJHL preseason game, a 3-1 win against Swan Valley back on September 7.
“Everyone wants to put up points, but it’s not always about that,” said Shantz. “I also take my defensive game very seriously, play in my own end is just as important. I don’t like being on the ice for goals against.”
You can hear the full interview with Jeriah during the Kings Power Play Show which starts at 4:08 on Friday afternoon.