From Draft Day to Debut: Owen Hayden’s Confident Start to His WHL Journey
When the Kelowna Rockets selected defenseman Owen Hayden with the ninth overall pick in the 2024 WHL Prospects Draft, the organization knew it was adding both size and upside to its blue line. What has quickly become evident, however, is Hayden’s maturity and professionalism well beyond his years.
“The draft was a really special experience and I was highly excited to become part of such an amazing organization,” Hayden said. “Before the draft, we had come to Kelowna a few times, and I loved the city. The Rockets are also known for being a winning organization and I was really happy to become part of the pipeline.”
At just 16 years old, Hayden stands 6-foot-7 and 205 pounds, a rare combination of reach, strength, and composure. This fall, he became the only 16-year-old to earn a roster spot with the Rockets for the 2025–26 season.
“It meant a lot to me to make it this year,” Hayden said. “Like I said earlier, this is a top-tier organization and I was happy to become a part of it as early in my career as I did. Overall, I think all my teammates have been very supportive. This team is really tight and it’s nice to be part of that.”
Hayden’s first few months in the organization tested that maturity. An injury suffered at Canada’s National U17 Development Camp sidelined him for much of the summer and delayed the start of his first WHL campaign.
“The recovery was a couple of months,” Hayden said. “Throughout my recovery I focused more on what I could do to come back better rather than the disappointing parts of being injured. Being able to come to Kelowna and work with Scotty (Scott Hoyer, Rockets Athletic Therapist) and all the other medical team was also huge.”
When Hayden finally made his WHL debut on October 19 in Tri-City, it represented both a personal milestone and a testament to his perseverance.
“That was a special moment for me and something I’ll never forget,” he said. “Before warmups I had some nerves, but once I got out there it just felt great to finally play again. After the long buildup, it was awesome to get on the ice and be able to do what I love again.”
One week before his debut, Hockey Canada announced Hayden’s selection to Team Canada Red for the 2025 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge in Truro, Nova Scotia. For the young defenceman, the opportunity marks another major step in his development.
“Being able to play for the national team is really exciting for me and something that every hockey player dreams of,” said Hayden. “The idea of being able to play against some of the best 09s in the world is also really exciting. Overall I can’t wait to head to Truro and contribute to Team Red, hopefully bringing home gold. A win is the main goal.”
Though his resume already includes significant milestones, Hayden remains grounded in his approach and quick to credit the people around him.
“It’s hard to say one person specifically has had the biggest effect on my hockey career,” Hayden said. “My teammates and coaches have all played a huge role. Along with that, I’m really thankful for everything my parents have done for me. In summary, I don’t think it’s just one person, but rather I’m thankful for everyone who has helped me along the way.”
That humility is matched by a strong sense of responsibility in his game.
“I’m not sure there’s one specific area I take pride in but rather all of them,” Hayden said. “Being able to contribute in all three zones and across all facets of the game is my goal every night. I take pride in doing the simple things well and being able to contribute in all situations (defensive, offensive, etc.).”
Hayden could potentially make his second WHL appearance tonight as the Rockets take on the Victoria Royals at the Save on Foods Memorial Centre in Victoria tonight. You can catch all the action live for free on Victory+ or you can listen live on 104.7 the Lizard.
