Giancarlo Nadeau
Ethan Smid learned how to walk with a hockey net and played his last junior hockey game on February 6, 2025. “Hockey has been a part of my life ever since then,” he claimed.
Hailing from Williams Lake, BC, his family would come to the Sunshine Coast as often as possible to watch him play. “They’ve been a huge support for me and have come down lots. They’ve been there for me my whole life, and I want to thank them for everything they’ve done for me,” said Smid.
Smid’s 20-year-old season in the PJHL was his first and only campaign in this league. “I feel like I’ve matured a lot; I’ve also just learned a lot about myself and how I play the game,” he admitted.
He was quickly recognized as a leader in the Tsunami and admits that being named an alternate captain was a good feeling. Although he isn’t the loudest guy in the room or anything, he feels his leadership shines through the most at the rink. “Being calm and staying calm under pressure” are things he prides himself on.
A Junior hockey career is full of many memories—some positive and others negative—but Smid was quick to point out that his hat trick game was his favourite of the season. “It was pretty cool to have my family there and see that,” he claimed. The Tsunami beat Port Moody 7-1 that night, and Smid had three goals and an assist to help his team register their first regulation win on the Sunshine Coast.
Smid suffered a wrist injury in a December 20 game against the Port Coquitlam Trailblazers, keeping him out of the lineup until January 31. Sitting out is never easy for a player in their last season of junior hockey. “It was tough, but it was great to get back and play the last couple of games with the boys,” he admitted.
The right-shot forward had the chance to step into a coaching role while recovering from injury. “I stayed around the guys and also had the opportunity to go on the bench, which was pretty cool,” said Smid.
“Hopefully, they remember me,” he said with a smile after being asked how he wants fans to remember him. “Thank you for being the best fans in the PJHL; there’s nothing like it. There’s no other place like this,” added Smid.
He finished his PJHL career with 10 goals and three assists for 13 points in 37 games and will be spending the off-season looking for a job.
“It’s a bittersweet feeling. I’m excited for new things to come over the next year, but it’s also tough leaving this group of guys,” said Smid. “I love them all,” he added.
