Former Central Plains Capitals forward Carson Buydens is the MJHL's 2021-22 Rookie of the Year.

The 18-year-old forward leads all rookies in scoring this season, with 27 goals and 26 assists for 53 points, and places in the top 15 of the entire league for total points. The Gladstone, Manitoba product says he was doing some school work with his teammates when he received the news.

"I was really excited," says Buydens. "It was really cool to see my name up there and to win that award. It's definitely not something I would've thought about at the start of the year, but it's pretty cool to have won it."

Buydens says his teammates were all super proud of him for receiving the honour, and he gives immense credit to his linemates Dylan Halliday and Branden Huminuk for the success he's had this season. He outlines what he believes has helped him transition to the MJHL better than the rest of his class.

"I think I just continued to work on all parts of my game. There's not one certain thing that is the key factor," Buydens explains. "You just have to keep getting stronger and faster, and keep working on all aspects of your game throughout the season."

During his last full season with the Central Plains Capitals, Buydens put up 40 points in 45 games as a 15-year-old at the U18 'AAA' level. He notes one of his favourite things about playing in the MJHL is the passionate fans.

"One of the most fun parts of being in the MJHL is playing for our fans," says Buydens. "We have some of the best fans in the league, and it's great to go out there on a Friday or Saturday night and get a good win for them."

Having already locked in a playoff spot, Buydens, and the rest of the Virden Oil Capitals, are looking to end the season strong and head into their first-round series against the Waywayseecappo Wolverines playing their best hockey. The local forward says he can't wait to get a taste of the MJHL postseason.

"I'm really excited and looking forward to it," Buydens continues. "We're hot right now, and we're looking to stay hot. We have high expectations for the playoffs."

Buydens, and the Oil Capitals, have just one game left in the regular season on March 19 in Portage as they take on the Terriers.