Hockey is more than a game—it’s a way of life. It teaches discipline, resilience, teamwork, and the importance of community. For athletes, the journey is filled with challenges, sacrifices, and endless hours of training. Yet, those moments of hard work pay off in ways that go beyond the scoreboard. This year, Pilot Mound Hockey Academy witnessed the incredible achievement of four talented young athletes—Cole Landreville, Maddox Ramage, Brett Buors, and Gavin Hildebrand—who earned the honor of being drafted into the Western Hockey League. Their stories are not just about personal success but about the collective support, perseverance, and belief in something greater than themselves.
These athletes have grown tremendously within the Pilot Mound Hockey Academy, a place where passion meets opportunity, where young players transform into confident competitors prepared for the next level. Their families, coaches, and teammates have played an essential role in shaping their development, and today, we take a moment to reflect on their journeys leading up to this milestone.
Landreville Family: A Journey of Growth and Dedication
Hockey teaches more than the skills required on the ice—it instills values that last a lifetime. It builds character, fosters teamwork, and strengthens the bond between athletes and their communities. Cole’s journey exemplifies these principles.
From the moment he stepped onto the ice, Cole has shown determination and passion. His time at Pilot Mound Hockey Academy has been transformative, allowing him to set ambitious goals and put in the work required to achieve them. His family has watched him evolve, from a young dreamer to a player who thrives in a competitive environment.
None of this success happened alone. Coaches Colin, Brad, and Tyson have provided not only expert hockey training but also mentorship that extends beyond the rink. Anthony has played a crucial role in Cole’s physical development, ensuring he gains the strength and endurance needed to compete at an elite level. His teammates—more than just fellow athletes—have become his second family, offering encouragement and support every step of the way.
The Pilot Mound community stands behind its athletes, and Cole has felt that unwavering support. The excitement of being drafted is a moment the Landreville family will never forget—a culmination of years of effort, sacrifice, and perseverance.
Cole’s Reflection on His Draft Day Experience
“Getting drafted is a dream come true, but I wouldn’t have achieved this without the people around me. First and foremost, I want to thank my coaches, Colin and Brad, for pushing me to be not just a better hockey player but a better person. They have shaped my game in ways I never imagined. Anthony, our trainer, has been instrumental in making me work hard in the gym, helping me build strength and speed.
I owe so much to my teammates—this year has been unforgettable because of the hard work, determination, and fun we shared together. Coming to Pilot Mound and playing for the Buffaloes was the best decision I’ve ever made. Coming from a small town, I instantly felt connected to the Pilot Mound community. The kids who look up to us, the friendships we build, and the sense of responsibility you gain when living away from home—these things have helped shape me for the next level.
To everyone in the Pilot Mound organization and community, thank you for your support!”
Ramage Family: Hard Work and Perseverance Lead to Success
Every athlete’s journey is defined by dedication, perseverance, and the ability to push through obstacles. For Maddox, his path to the WHL is a testament to his commitment and tireless effort. His family could not be prouder as they celebrate his selection to the Swift Current Broncos in the sixth round, 125th overall.
Over the last two years, Pilot Mound Hockey Academy has been more than just a training ground—it’s been a place of growth, opportunity, and transformation. Maddox has learned to balance competition with personal development, taking each challenge head-on.
His performance speaks volumes. This past season, he put up 42 points, including 24 goals and 18 assists, showing not just his skill but his ability to make an impact on the ice. But beyond stats, it’s his dedication, his early mornings, his late-night practices, and his unwavering desire to improve that make this achievement truly special.
His family extends their deepest gratitude to the academy, his coaches, and everyone who has helped Maddox reach this point. This draft selection is just the beginning of a new chapter, and they will be cheering him on every step of the way!
Buors Family: The Emotional Rollercoaster of Draft Day
Draft day was filled with anticipation, nerves, and ultimately overwhelming joy for the Buors family. Brett’s selection by the Prince George Cougars was a moment of pure elation, a reward for the years of sacrifice and dedication he has poured into the sport.
The decision to send Brett to Pilot Mound Hockey Academy was pivotal. It provided him with a stepping stone to independence, structured support, and exposure to higher-level competition in the CSSHL. The academy’s emphasis on training, nutrition, and time management set the foundation for his development, while coaches Colin and Brad gave him the individual focus necessary to refine his skills.
Brett’s experience at Pilot Mound Collegiate was also invaluable, with Principal Nathan Ramage and the staff ensuring his academic success alongside his athletic growth. The Buors family is immensely grateful to everyone at the academy for helping Brett achieve this incredible milestone.
Brett’s Draft Day Experience
“I spent the entire draft day glued to the TV. As the picks went by, my nerves grew, and doubt started to creep in. But my mom never lost faith—she waited anxiously for my name. Then, after six long hours, I heard it. I was drafted! The excitement in my house was unreal—my dad ran to me, my mom rushed in, and my sister was ecstatic that she could finally brag about her brother being drafted.
I couldn’t have done this alone. My team, my coaches, my family—everyone played a role. My teammates pushed me every day, making sure I improved while keeping the fun alive. Colin and Brad constantly challenged me and gave me opportunities to build confidence on the ice. My parents have been my biggest supporters, with my dad analyzing my gameplay and my mom always lifting me up after tough games.
This year has been unforgettable, and I am incredibly thankful for what Pilot Mound has done for me.”
Hildebrand Family: A Goaltender’s Road to Success
Watching Gavin grow has been an emotional journey—from his early minor hockey days to the moment the WHL Penticton Vees called his name. The sacrifices, the long drives to rinks, the sweat and hard work—it all led to this moment.
Moving away from home at just 13 to play U15 Prep hockey was a tough decision, but it proved to be the right one. The Pilot Mound community embraced Gavin, refining his skills, building his confidence, and preparing him for the challenges ahead.
Gavin’s Thoughts on His Journey
“I am honored and grateful to have been drafted to the WHL Penticton Vees. I couldn’t have done this without my family, my coaches from Morden Minor Hockey and Pilot Mound Hockey Academy, goalie coach Tim Morison, and my teammates. Their belief in me has pushed me forward every day.
This is just the beginning, and I am thankful to Pilot Mound for preparing me so well over the past two years. The academy’s routine—education, daily practice, workouts, and living with my teammates—has taken my game to the next level.
Have fun and stop pucks!”
These athletes represent the values of dedication, excellence, and gratitude that define Pilot Mound Hockey Academy. Their success is a celebration of their passion, hard work, and the unwavering support of their families and community. Congratulations to Cole, Maddox, Brett, and Gavin—your journeys are just beginning!
