A longtime Red Deer Rebels defenceman will continue his hockey career at the University of British Columbia.
Earlier this month, the UBC Thunderbirds announced Jace Weir had signed a deal to play with the team for the 2025-26 Canada West season.
The Coldstream, B.C. native played his entire Western Hockey League career with the Rebels, recording 13 goals and 74 assists in 279 games.
"I've played the last five years in Alberta and I've loved it, but going into school and other things to think about, I just thought UBC was the best fit for me both on the ice and off the ice," Weir said in a UBC media release.
"I love the Vancouver area, I've been there many, many times and I'm very comfortable there. I met the coaches, they're top tier. They showed me around and I saw the campus at UBC, it's crazy what it has to offer and I just loved everything about it. I'm really happy."
UBC head coach Sven Butenschon said Weir has "a good skill set," with room to grow offensively.
"We've had pretty good success with the Jake Lees and Cyle McNabbs and Liam Kindrees who have a ton of talent who never really got the chance in junior to showcase those skills. I'm expecting Jace to come in with lots of confidence and maybe add layers to his game," said Butenschon.
This past season, Weir received the Rebels' Humanitarian Award, which recognizes the player who donates time throughout the season to give back to the community they call home.
Weir is aiming to gain entry into UBC's Sauder School of Business. He had considered going to the NCAA, but decided UBC was the best path for him.
"Just based off everything from location and the team and coaches, I just think everything pointed to UBC," said Weir.
"Obviously with the NCAA thing opening up there are lots of guys going that route but personally for me, I just wanted to stay in Canada and get my schooling and play for a very, very strong program."
Weir will have the chance to reunite with Chris Douglas, his former teammate in Red Deer. The two played for the Rebels in Weir's rookie season and Douglas' final.
