Voortman building confidence with Canada White at U17 World Hockey Challenge
Jace Voortman hopes his time at the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge will help him return to the Owen Sound Attack with more confidence.
The 16-year-old forward closed out round-robin play with a goal and two assists in Canada White’s 7-2 win over Sweden on Tuesday night at the Sixteen Mile Sports Complex. Voortman also had an assist in their tournament-opening loss to Czechia; up to five points through two contests.
"It’s special playing for your country," Voortman said. "The fans out there are crazy, and when you score, it’s pretty special."
The Thunder Bay native is in his rookie season with the Attack after being drafted in the third round of the 2026 OHL Priority Selection.
The left winger has three assists in 14 games with Owen Sound after spending last season with the Toronto Jr. Canadiens.
Voortman acknowledged that the move to major junior has taken some adjusting.
"It’s been a big adjustment for me personally, but overall, I think Owen Sound has welcomed me very well," he said. "I’m getting lots of opportunity in a tournament like this where I represent my country and play against my own age. It’s nice to get momentum and help Owen Sound keep pushing."
After a strong preliminary round, Voortman is hoping to keep producing in the quarterfinals against Finland and when he returns to Owen Sound.
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