Years of hard work are starting to pay off for Ashton Sautner, who was born in Flin Flon and lived in Creighton until he was seven.
After being signed by the Vancouver Canucks in March, the prospect has continued to train at a high level.
“Some people think that as soon as you’ve been signed you’re on the team, but it doesn’t work that way,” he said. “I’m one step closer to the NHL, but I still have a long way to go.”
Speaking from Vancouver, where he is currently going to the gym and skating to be at the top of his game, the young defenseman sounds humble about his ability but full of determination to put in the work necessary to advance his career.
Sautner and his family moved to North Battleford when his dad accepted a coaching position with the North Stars. From there he spent a short time in Moose Jaw before settling in Wolseley SK, where both Sautner and his sister graduated from high school. Three years ago his dad returned to the family farm in Flaxcombe SK.
“I was forced to make a lot of friends growing up,” said Sautner of the many places he has called home over the years.
The moves didn’t seem to hold back his hockey career.
Sautner was playing in the WHL with the Edmonton Oil Kings when he was given an entry-level contract with the Canucks.
The Canucks sent him to the AHL Utica Comets in New York, where he finished the season.
Today Sautner is in Vancouver, training for the Prospects Tournament which will be held in mid-September in Penticton BC.
“Right now I’m heavy into training,” he said. “One of the most important things is coming to camp in shape both so you’re in good condition to play and also to protect yourself from injury.”
“There will be players from all of the Western Canadian teams,” he said. “Really, it’s a tryout, and you have to go in shape and ready to play with the big boys.”
Should the Canucks decide Sautner is ready to play he will head to the team training camp in Prince George BC in preparation for the NHL season.
“If I don’t make the Canucks, I’ll go back with the Utica Comets and start training with them in France at the end of September,” he said.
While making it to the NHL has always been the defenceman’s dream, he said spending some time in the minor league would be a positive experience as well. With three years on his contract he is confident that his time will come if he continues to work hard.
