Recently crowned Canada West Goaltender of the Year, Roddy Ross has received his fair share of recognition for his athletic achievements.
Being recognized for his community work, he says, is something he is still getting used to.
"It means a lot to be recognized for an award like this. Throughout my three years here, I haven't had that type of recognition. Being used to hockey awards and then getting recognition from the school it's a different feeling."
Roddy Ross celebrating during the Huskie Men's Hockey Canada West Finals. (Photo: (Liam Richards/Electric Umbrella)
After finishing his WHL career, Ross arrived at University of Saskatchewan (USask) in 2021.
"I've told many people this - I only came here for hockey. For what was supposed to be one or two years. But coming to the University of Saskatchewan it has been the best decision I've ever made."
Huskie Men's Hockey may be feeling similar, after Ross dominated with a 30-save shutout this past weekend, helping the team secure the Canada West conference title, with a 3-0 victory over the Mount Royal Cougars.
The win takes the team to Ottawa, where they will compete next weekend in the hopes of winning a national championship.
In addition to his athletic excellence, during his time as a Huskie, Ross has emerged as a remarkable leader off the ice - inspiring Indigenous youth through his commitment to community.
His goalie helmet - adorned with Indigenous symbolism - serves as a reminder of his culture, heritage, resilience and strength, every time he steps on the ice.
It also provides a source of pride and inspiration for Indigenous youth, showing them that they too belong at USask and Huskie Athletics.
This representation of what's possible is something Ross hopes to achieve through his community work and active participation in various coaching and mentoring initiatives.
From Huskie Athletics' Day in The Life program for high school students, to coaching and running hockey camps back home, to making the nearly five-hour drive to Moosomin every Monday for the past three weeks to skate with young goalies - Ross leads with action, consistently going above and beyond to set a good example.
Of particular importance to him is giving back to his hometown Meadow Lake and his home community of Canoe Lake Cree First Nation.
"I hope it sets the standard. You should always find a way to give. They're the ones that supported you and always had your back so you should find a way to make time and give back to them."
As for the future, Ross says working with young people brings him joy and is something he hopes to continue doing when he finishes his time with the Huskies at the end of this season.
He'd also like to follow in the footsteps of his mentor, Huskie Hockey Alumni and FSIN Vice-Chief Craig McCallum.
"Being involved in Indigenous politics is something I see myself stepping into. I enjoy being around and learning from people like Vice-Chief Craig. He's a big role model for me. Either working in politics or working with youth, is something I see after I'm done playing hockey."
Huskie Chief Athletics Officer Shannon Chinn knows firsthand that whatever the future holds and wherever he goes, Ross is sure to make a lasting and positive impact.
"Roddy's influence extends beyond the rink. His approachable and down to earth nature have made him a beloved teammate, peer and role model, particularly among the youth who look up to him. His journey is a testament to the impact one individual can have on their community and beyond."
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