Photo credit: Steve Dunsmoor

By Regan Bartel

Surging Sophomore

Guest of honour: Rowan Guest’s steady presence on the blueline

Oct 31, 2025 | 11:00 AM

Rowan Guest isn’t just back for his second year in the WHL, he’s a different player entirely. At 19, the Kelowna Rockets defenseman has the experience, confidence, and perspective that comes from surviving the rigors of a rookie season and stepping into a more mature, leadership-driven role.

“Oh yeah, definitely after getting that first year under my belt, the faster pace guys, my first year definitely helps a lot,” Guest said. “Even though I was 18 last year, coming on 19, it’s a big jump from hockey to this level. Everyone has their different paths, and I chose it this way. No better time to be here than this year.”

For a defenseman, every misstep is magnified. Mistakes are visible to everyone in the arena, on every shift. But Guest has embraced the pressure, framing it as a privilege rather than a burden.

“Pressure is privilege. If you’re a reliable defenseman and you can shut down a team’s top lines, it helps a lot. Sometimes mistakes can be hefty, but the mindset is next shift, come back and be better.”

That guidance extends beyond the bench. Guest benefits from mentorship from NHL veteran Josh Gorges, who played the same style of defense Guest aspires to.

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“Having ‘Georgie,’ he kind of played my style, a shutdown guy. First pass is your most important pass. We talked quite a bit at the start of the season, set the baseline. Using your frame, using your stick. In practice, he comes into the room almost every day. You can go up to him, do video after games. He shows mistakes but praises as well. It’s been really great.”

Physical development has been a priority as well.

“I don’t know if I grew in height, but I gained 15 pounds [this summer]. Last year, they wanted me bigger, stronger, more physical. I came back 15 pounds heavier, from 195 to 210. I find I’m faster as well, helps in the corners too.”

That added strength has allowed Guest to be more assertive in every zone, using his size and speed to challenge opponents while maintaining composure in his own end.

The team itself has evolved alongside him. Guest notices a cultural shift in the locker room, a focus on accountability, energy, and shared responsibility.

“There’s a different vibe for the team, way different than last year. Losing those games, tough coming to the rink sometimes, but we pushed through. Large chunk of the group is the same as last year. The guys we brought in fit in. Captain Maz [Mazden Leslie], I got to know him really well. Compete level…we go down a goal, doesn’t feel like the game’s over.”

Despite not wearing a letter on his jersey, Guest is a cornerstone of the Rockets’ leadership group. His voice carries weight with teammates, guiding younger players through the ups and downs of the WHL season. He emphasizes the importance of honesty, communication, and accountability, values that resonate both on and off the ice.

“Being in the leadership group, it’s about bringing the right energy every day, setting an example in practice, in the locker room. When a teammate struggles, you support them. When we need a push, you’re ready. It’s all part of building a winning culture.”

The Rockets themselves are aiming high. With experience returning, strategic roster additions, and a maturing group of players, the team is shaping into a contender that can compete in tight, high-stakes games. Guest sees the opportunity and embraces it.

“We have a lot of potential”, he said.  “We’ve got guys who can step up. Everyone knows their role, and we’re focused on pushing each other to be better.

“The growth this year will define how far we can go.”