Jade Iginla forced to withdraw from upcoming U18 World Championships

Jade Iginla, 17 year old daughter of Hockey Hall of Famer Jarome Iginla, had withdrawn from Canada's U18 roster after suffering and upper body injury in a pre-tournament exhibition game.

“Jade has made an enormous impact on our team, and while it is extremely disappointing she won’t be able to compete along with her teammates, we know she will continue to have a positive influence within our dressing room,” said Gina Kingsbury, director of hockey operations with Hockey Canada.

Needless to say, that Iginla's absence from the tournament is disappointing for hockey fans like myself who absolutely LOVED her father during his NHL career. The elder Iginla was an absolute force on the ice and was an absolute joy to watch throughout his NHL career. Frankly, I was excited to see what Jade could do out there, but it looks like I'll have to wait a bit longer.

For what it's worth, the 17 year old Jade had a very impressive 18 goals and 28 points in 22 games with Kelowna's U18 women's program in Kelowna, BC. Jade's younger brother Tij Iginla also played in the Kelowna U18 men's program this past season putting up 26 goals and 48 points in just 32 games. He was drafted 9th overall by the WHL's Seattle Thunderbirds and is expected to play his rookie campaign in the junior league next season.

Personally, I'm absolutely STOKED to see the next generation of Iginla's hit the ice.