(Image Credit: Rich Lam)

By Regan Bartel

Named Canada West D-Man of the Year

Former Kelowna Rocket Jake Lee eyes pro opportunity

Mar 6, 2026 | 6:00 AM

Former Kelowna Rockets defenceman Jake Lee wrapped up a memorable season with the UBC Thunderbirds.

Lee was named Canada West Men’s Hockey Defenceman of the Year after leading all Canada West defencemen in scoring. In his fourth season with UBC, he recorded 14 goals and 20 assists for 34 points in 28 games.

The Thunderbirds were dominant during the regular season, finishing with a 23-2 record, the best mark in school history.

Despite that success, UBC’s season came to an end in the playoffs, falling short of advancing to the national championship tournament.

Lee told RocketFAN earlier this season that the team entered the year with confidence because of its experience and chemistry.

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“We were really confident coming into the year. We got quite a few older guys. This was always our year to look forward to,” Lee said. “We’ve got 26 guys, all on the same page, working hard. Big bodies, skill, all the right pieces that fit together.”

Lee’s offensive numbers are impressive for a defenceman, something he credits to growth in his overall game.

“I’ve grown as a player. My decision-making has improved, and I’ve really honed my two-way defenseman game,” he said.

As a senior, Lee also took pride in helping younger players adjust to university hockey.

Away from the rink, Lee has been studying economics at the University of British Columbia and says he has enjoyed the experience of balancing school and hockey.

“I’m no special student, but UBC is a great school,” Lee said. “I’ve loved the last four years here. I wouldn’t take any of it back.”

Lee has also used UBC’s alumni network to begin exploring career opportunities beyond hockey while continuing to pursue the chance to play professionally.

“The goal is the American League next year,” he said. “After that, I’d like to finish my career in Europe, travel a bit, and keep playing the sport I love.”

Looking back, Lee says choosing the university route instead of jumping straight to professional hockey helped him grow.

“I was still trying to mature as a player. In the end, it all worked out. I’ve made great connections and grown as a person.”

The transition from a 68-game season in the Western Hockey League to the shorter Canada West schedule also took some adjustment.

“It’s intense. Every game matters here, and you have to be ready every night,” Lee said.

Even with fewer games, Lee made a big impact, leading the Thunderbirds’ defence while helping guide the team to one of the best regular seasons in program history.