Next year's hockey plans are in place for Winkler's Katelyn Heppner, and can now focus on the on-going Pembina Valley Hawks season.

"I like that I got it done early and I can focus on the Esso Cup this year with the Hawks. It's going to be fun," said Heppner.

Earlier this month Heppner committed to play with the Nipissing University Lakers, who play in the (Ontario University Athletics (OUA) hockey conference.

"I wanted to stay in Canada, and I contacted a bunch of schools. Darren (Turcotte), the head coach, he really stood out in his email and he really liked my play. He also helps coach Team Canada, which is a plus. I like the smaller school, because Winkler`s not a big city, and I wanted to stay in a smaller school as well."

Heppner an Alternate Captain with the Hawks is from Winkler and is entering her final year with the Hawks. During her first two seasons Heppner scored 23 goals and added 54 assists for 77 points while playing 136 games. Heppner is a physical and fast player who won a silver medal at the 2014 Manitoba Games and this past season made the Top 40 Camp for Hockey Manitoba's Program of Excellence.

She's been in talks with the University for a while, and this past off season was doing its work out program.

"I was working out five or six days a week. Your running on the track and doing weight training. That all just helped me get stronger and faster for the this year with the Hawks," added Heppner.