Dowhaniuk first Griffins MHKY player recognized by Canada West with spot on all-rookie team
February 27, 2026

Dowhaniuk first Griffins MHKY player recognized by Canada West with spot on all-rookie team

Jefferson Hagen
MacEwan Athletics

EDMONTON – Expectations were high for Keaton Dowhaniuk when he joined the Griffins men's hockey team with 303 games of Western Hockey League experience on his resume.

But even MacEwan head coach Zack Dailey didn't expect the defenceman to be as impactful as he was in his rookie U SPORTS season in 2025-26.

With 18 points in 28 games – tied for second amongst rookie rearguards in the conference – Dowhaniuk was named to the Canada West all-rookie team on Friday.

He makes history by becoming the first Griffins men's hockey player recognized by the conference since the program joined Canada West in 2021.

"His overall confidence was quite good," said Griffins head coach Zack Dailey. "He came in and had puck confidence, which is rare for a rookie D-man."

That led to Dowhaniuk breaking the program record for the most assists by a Griffins rookie in a Canada West season – his total of 15 busting past the old mark of 11 set by Ethan Sundar in 2024-25. 

"Throughout the year, I think he just simplified his game," said Dailey. "He let his skill ride when he needed to, but he didn't force things. I saw a ton of progression and maturity throughout the season from him, so I'm happy to see him get some recognition from the league."

Dowhaniuk joins UBC's Jace Weir – who led all Canada West defencemen with 26 points – as the blueliners on the conference's all-rookie team. Mount Royal goaltender Ethan Buenaventura, Saskatchewan forward Conner Roulette, Calgary forward Hayden Pakkala and UBC forward Reilley Kotai complete the all-rookie team selections.

Beyond the points, Dowhaniuk also brought big-time defensive value to the Griffins, playing top-pairing minutes, mostly alongside his brother Logan.

"Definitely impressive for him to be used in all situations," said Dailey. "He earned it with his play. Nothing was given to him; he earned everything that he got. So, kudos to his hard work and commitment to doing things correctly on the ice."

Keaton Dowhaniuk and teammate Myles Gauld both tied Kadyn Chabot's program record for the most points by a Griffins rookie in a Canada West season with 18, while Dwayne Jean Jr. was only one behind at 17. 

"They were a big part of our group and a big part of the success," said Dailey. "Any time you're recruiting guys, you have expectations for them to come in and contribute. All three of them exceeded my expectations. 

"I'm really happy with their play and they're going to be big parts moving forward. Just really happy with their production, progression and maturity throughout the season."