Guthrie hopes for big finish with Oil Caps

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This article was published 28/01/2025 (234 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

When Ethan Guthrie started his Junior hockey career he had no idea how fast three years would go by.

Now the 20-year-old is trying to lug his team into a third straight playoff appearance as his time as a Virden Oil Capital winds down.

“Virden is a great place to play and we always have a great team and great guys that make hockey fun,” said Guthrie.

“It’s very enjoyable coming to the rink every day and we got a great group of guys over here.”

In his final year in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, being named captain was an unexpected, yet welcomed start to his overage season, as the product of the Brandon Wheat Kings AAA U18 program took over the leadership after learning the ropes in his first two seasons

“It was an honour. It’s an achievement in some ways but I just try to play hard, play my best, and lead the team the best way that I can,” said Guthrie.

Guthrie’s career has experienced a lot, most notably surpassing a milestone most would only dream about. The six-foot, left-shot defenceman celebrated 150 career games with the Oil Capitals back on Jan. 18 in Winkler.

“It’s insane. I didn’t even know I hit 150 games to be honest. It flies by and I definitely don’t take any games for granted,” said Guthrie.

The fact he’s enjoyed it in a supportive community just 45 minutes down the road from his hometown of Brandon has made for an unforgettable experience.

“We have a great community. The fans are always super supportive. Every time we play the fans are loud and into the games, they’re always excited and cheering for us so it makes for a fun place to play,” Guthrie added.

The feeling is mutual, as he’s become a fan favourite in the community, as his presence extends far beyond the ice.

“It’s hard to put into words what we’s done for our organization,” said head coach Tyson Ramsey.

“He’s a leader in all aspects of the word. He’s one of the first to put his hand up when we go out in the community. He works hard at practice and makes everyone in the dressing room feel welcome. He’s also one of our biggest competitors and a great guy to lead our group.”

After reaching the finals in his first year with the Oil Capitals he had a great learning experience, not only from participating in a deep playoff run, but also the leadership group he learned under at the time.

While he’s hoping to pass along some of the traits he’s learned along the way, Ramsey says his work ethic and talent are inherent within.

“He’s a competitor and he works every day. He just goes about his business, but continued to get better and better every day during his time here. You never have to wonder what you’re going to get from him, he gives it his all every day, whether it’s in the gym, in the community or on the ice,” said Ramsey.

“We’re sure happy for him, but we’re sure going to miss him when he’s done.”

Guthrie isn’t sure of what’s next in his hockey journey just yet, as right now the focus is solely on getting Virden back to the playoffs.

“Definitely going to finals in my first year was awesome. That experience was a lot of fun. Even last year, the run we went on was really enjoyable. And this year, we’re just battling. Every game feels like a playoff game right now.” said Guthrie.

The Oil Capitals are in a see-saw battle for fourth in the MJHL’s West Division down the stretch, currently tied with the Waywayseecappo Wolverines with 33 points in the standings.

Coming off a huge 4-2 road win over Dauphin on Saturday, which put the Caps back into the playoff picture, Guthrie plans to continue going about his business, but with just 18 regular season games left, they’ll be looking to play their best.

With that comes the hope of playing more meaningful hockey come late March and into April.

“My first year we had a young team and some success and then last year we came together in the second half and had a good run. This year we’re still just trying to figure things out and I think the older guys are trying to lead the team as best we can,” said Guthrie.

“I think that we’re just going to have to bear down, play hard yet gritty, and just keep it simple.”

His teammates and coaches think if anyone can help lug them into that spot, it’s him.

“Part of leadership is learning from your experiences and he’s certainly done that. He’s been a part of real good teams and been a big part of those teams, so the stuff that he’s learned from those things that he can pass on to our younger guys,” said Ramsey.

“The hope is then that those younger guys learn from someone like him and he’ll help to impart those lessons and continue to help our group moving forward.”

The MJHL regular season schedule takes a break this week for the showcase week, in which select players from the league play an exhibition series against Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League selects.

All MJHL-SJHL Showcase games take place in Winnipeg today and tomorrow.

The Oil Capitals host Dauphin this Friday and have a road-heavy schedule to conclude the regular season, with just three home games in the month of February.

»mpackwood@brandonsun.com