Photo credit: RocketFAN

By Regan Bartel

Hardnosed Rocket d-man picks up hardware

Nate Corbet reflects on growth and future goals

Mar 26, 2025 | 6:00 AM

At the start of the season, Nate Corbet might have pictured himself as a leader in penalty minutes for the Western Hockey League. What he didn’t foresee, however, was being named the Kelowna Rockets Defenseman of the Year. 

The 19-year-old, known for his tough play, received the honor at Tuesday’s year-end awards ceremony after being traded from the Medicine Hat Tigers in November. 

“It’s a pretty cool moment… definitely overwhelming,” Corbet said after the win. “I’m really honored to be selected for this award. There are some pretty remarkable players on that trophy, and for my name to be on there, alongside those players and with the Corbet last name, that’s truly special.” 

The trophy bears the names of notable NHL stars like Scott Hannan, Luke Schenn, Tyler Myers, Shea Weber, and Josh Gorges. 

“Watching those guys perform at such a high level for so many years—that’s the level I’m striving for,” Corbet said. 

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For Corbet, it’s all about grit and determination as he looks to catch the attention of NHL scouts. Leading the league in games played (72), penalty minutes (176), and fighting majors, the son of former NHLer Rene Corbet is determined to take his game to the next level. 

“With all the adversity we faced this year, I’ve learned a lot about myself and this group,” he said. “We’ll face adversity again next year—it’s inevitable. But taking the lessons from this season into next will help us a lot.” 

Corbet is looking forward to the next chapter, especially with new players expected to join the team to strengthen their championship aspirations. 

“There are going to be key new pieces added to our team, and I’m excited to meet them and continue building a winning culture here,” Corbet added. 

As an NHL draft-eligible player, Corbet hopes to hear his name called at the draft after impressing the Edmonton Oilers during a rookie camp, where he got into three fights at the YoungStars tournament in Penticton last fall. 

“Everyone talks about being bigger, faster, and stronger, but I know I need to add some size to really bring that physical edge,” he said. “I believe I can also improve my skating, which will help both me and my team.” 

While Corbet was honored as the defenseman of the year, 19-year-old forward Jakub Stancl was named MVP and top scorer. Stancl was unable to attend the ceremony as he headed to the American Hockey League to join the St. Louis Blues’ affiliate, the Springfield Thunderbirds. 

Other award winners included: 

• Most Sportsmanlike Player: Levi Benson 

• Scholastic Player of the Year: Jaxon Kehrig 

• Unsung Hero: Michael Cicek 

• Plus/Minus Winner: Michael Cicek 

• Top Defensive Forward: Hayden Paupanekis 

• Top Rookie: Kalder Varga 

• Most Improved: Kayden Longley 

• Community Involvement: Rowan Guest