Nathan McKenzie, who goes by Nolan, will be playing hockey in Finland until next April. (Image Credit: Submitted photo/Nolan McKenzie)

By Derek Cornet

player development

Stanley Mission teen playing upcoming hockey season overseas

Aug 4, 2026 | 2:21 PM

Nathan (Nolan) McKenzie hopes to broaden his horizons by taking his hockey career across the pond to Finland next season.

The 18-year-old from Stanley Mission arrived in the northern European nation on July 20 and will be playing for the Spirit of Hockey U20 junior hockey program, stylized as Spirit U20, a private club within the U20 II-divisioona.

Spirit U20’s mission is to help young players grow both on and off the ice, while providing them with the environment, support, and opportunities they need to reach their full potential. The program is based in Turku, but McKenzie is staying at dorm in Nousiainen until the season ends in the spring.

“They just found me online, and they messaged my mom and everything just worked out, and I was able to sign a contract and commit to the 2026/2027 season,” explained the Lac La Ronge Indian Band member.

“At first it was kind of hard to adjust. I really missed home, but I am adjusting now after being here for a week and the boys are so welcoming here.”

player development

Stanley Mission teen playing upcoming hockey season overseas

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Spirit U20 is Finland’s first and only private junior ice hockey club. As of the publication of this article, the club has seven players committed to play for the upcoming season, including two Canadians, three Americans, one Spaniard and one Finn. Their first game of the season will be Aug. 15.

McKenzie has been playing hockey since he was six years old. He spent much of that time playing in Stanley Mission, but has spend the last three years playing in La Ronge. He most recently played on the Ice Wolves U18 team where he averaged a point per game in 15 contests which included four goals.

“I’ve always prioritized staying close to home. It is a decision that allowed me to have a strong support system from my family and friends. It was important for me to stay close to home to graduate from my hometown,” McKenzie noted.

“I feel it was something I was always meant to do is play hockey. It has been my passion.”

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

by Derek Cornet

Stanley Mission teen playing upcoming hockey season overseas

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