After stepping away from the game of hockey for various periods of time, former Barrie Colts forward Kyle Heitzner has returned to the ice.
The 22-year-old left-handed forward has gone pro and is now with the Quad City Storm of the Southern Professional Hockey League.
Last season, Heitzner only played nine games combined with the Ånge IK across the pond in Sweden, and with the Bradford Bulls. Prior to that, he suited up for the Barrie Colts in 2016-17 and 2017-18 before finishing out his OHL career with the Mississauga Steelheads, appearing in five games.
“At one point, I definitely felt like I was ready to move on from hockey,” he said. “After stepping away from that high level of hockey, I started to miss it.”
Heitzner started the 2021-22 campaign with the Creemore Coyotes of the WOAA Senior 'AA' Hockey League. Then he received a phone call from Quad City in Moline, Ill.
“I wanted to get out there to try and help a team win,” he said. “I want to get back to the game that I always grew up playing — just simple hockey, playmaking and being a community guy.”
Heitzner’s long-term goal is to earn a spot on an ECHL roster, but for now he is focused on shaking off the rust with the Storm.
“I think I have a good window of opportunity here. I’m still young,” he said. “There are a lot of good players here, and it’s definitely competitive. I have to give it my all while I still have the chance.”
Heitzner spends each day on the ice, training, and being a part of community events.
“I want to get involved with this community as much as I can while I’m here,” he said. “Obviously, in Canada, everybody knows and loves hockey, but here it’s kind of a little bit new to some people. I’m trying to bring my passion for the game of hockey here to the States."
Heitzner says he missed having a sense of community in Canada with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
“It just feels like I have my freedom back a little bit here,” he said. “It’s a breath of fresh air being here and being able to go to a restaurant or the bowling alley with my buddies. It’s nice.”
The pandemic played a role his decision to continue his hockey career down south.
“I honestly didn’t think they would get back on the ice this season in Canada after the last lockdown,” he said.
While Heitzner is enjoying his time in the United States, he admits it can be difficult being away from family and friends. The Orillia native spends most of his spare time on FaceTime and playing online video games with friends from back home.
“I couldn’t do this without their support,” he said. “They are constantly calling to check in on me, and I miss them like crazy.”
When more COVID-19 restrictions lift, Heitzner’s family will visit him in Illinois.
“I’m looking forward to that visit, for sure,” he said.
Despite missing home, he must stay focused. Every practice and game is a tryout, he says.
“I’ve seen guys get released and traded already and I’ve only been here a week,” Heitzner said. “I have to be focused on playing hockey.”
So far, Heitzner has a goal and an assist in three games played. He thanked the community and his past coaches for helping him net the opportunity, and he aims to make everyone proud.
“Hopefully, this goes well and I can keep playing for five to 10 years,” he said. “That’s kind of my game plan.”
