Ashtyn Shields, whose family resides in Esterhazy, was drafted into the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) on June 6th, 2020. The 5’10”, 165 pound 15 year old was drafted in round 4, 43rd overall, by the Battlefords North Stars. Originally, the North Stars had acquired the 43rd pick from the Estevan Bruins.
Shields played AA bantam-level hockey with the Melville Millionaires of the SBAAHL last year, earning 51 points overall (18G and 33A) in 31 games played. He played his first five years of hockey in Esterhazy, mainly coached by Dave Shields and Blair Banga.
Speaking about being drafted, Ashtyn Shields said, “It feels really good. It’s really cool to be drafted into the SJHL. My dad played there a long time ago and its cool to follow his steps. It’s a really great stepping stone for me and my future.”
Ashtyn’s father, Dave Shields, played with the Melville Millionaires of the SJHL from 1996-2000. In the 99-2000 year, he earned a stat line of 78 points (36 G, 42A) in 49 games played.
Ashtyn plans to head to the Prairie Hockey Academy in Caronport next year to advance his development.
A love for hockey spreads throughout the entire family. Kelsey Shields, Ashtyn’s mother, can be found at a hockey rink each week during the season supporting the family’s love of the sport. Speaking about Ashtyn and the draft, Kelsey said, “We are very proud of Ashtyn and his hard work. We spent a lot of hours on the road and in the hockey rink, but hockey is what he loves. We are excited for what is to come.”
Kiah Shields, Ashtyn’s sister, plays high-level hockey in Melville with the Parkland Fire as well. Kelsey Shields mentioned, “We spend many hours on the road driving back and forth to Melville.”
Ashtyn mentioned another prospect to keep your eyes on, Beau Helmeczi. He is an up-and-coming prospect from Esterhazy as well.