A former Airdrie Xtreme is about to start the biggest tournament of his young career.

Ryan Straschnitzki and the Leduc Oil Kings will represent the Pacific Region at this year's Telus Cup National Midget Hockey Tournament in Prince George.

Straschnitkzki, who tried out for the Strathmore Bisons a couple years ago, explains what led him to Leduc.

"I didn't end up making the team but I wanted to play in the league so I contacted the President of this league and he recommended that I go tryout in Leduc so I went there and ended up making the team and decided to come back this year too."

The Oil Kings made it to the Telus Cup after beating the Bisons in the AMHL final but didn't need to play in the Pacific Regionals as the British Columbia Champions the Cougars are hosting this year's tournament, meaning both teams automatically advanced.

Straschnitzki says his team can't wait to get on the ice for the tournament.

"I think our team's excited and ready to go and prove that Alberta is one of the stronger teams in the nation."

As you would expect, the team is feeling a bit of nerves heading into the big event, but those should be quieted very quickly.

"I don't think anyone's played on this big of a stage in their whole career so far. Nerves will definitely be a role but I think that after the first five minutes and you smell the ice, I think it all goes away and just focus on playing the game."

Straschnitzki and the Oil Kings begin the Telus Cup round robin on Monday, April 24th against the host Cariboo Cougars.

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