Austin Manitoba's Zak Smith was selected 12 overall by Neepawa in the 2016 MJHL Draft.

Smith played for the Central Plains Capitals Bantam team last season, racking up 83 points in in 49 games played. Smith says it was an exciting experience when he found out he'd been selected.

"Me and a couple of friends were just watching the draft, and my name popped up! It feels pretty good."

The self described play maker had 50 assists last season, and credits his success to Bantam Caps' Head Coach Mike Neill.

Smith

"Mike has given me a lot of pointers to make me a good player. We have a great team, he led us through the season very well, and he's a good coach."

The 5'10 150 lbs winger is shooting for the Central Plains Capitals' Midget Men's team next season. He knows there's a lot of work to be done over the summer.

"I'm going to have to get a lot bigger and stronger to play against a good group of guys that are in the MJHL. It's going to be a hard summer."

Smith's excited at the opportunity to one day play in the MJ.