By CKPG Today

Spruce Kings

Spruce Kings announce player commitments

Jun 25, 2025 | 2:57 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — The Prince George Spruce Kings have announced a pair of player commitments for next season.

Photo courtesy PG Spruce Kings

2005 born defenceman Ozbej Rep is 6’1, 183 pounds from Jesenice, Slovenia who played the last two seasons for Södertälje SK J20 in the Sweden J20 Nationell league. Over the last two years, Rep has put up 11 goals and 42 assists in 87 games.

At this years IIHF World Under-20 Division 1-A tournament, Ozbej represented Slovenia for a second straight year. He also played five additional games with the men’s National Team.

“Ozbej is an elite level Dman who will be a huge piece for us this season. He’s coming to us after playing in a great league in Sweden last season. His addition really helps to solidify our back end. He will be looked upon to play key minutes in all situations,” says General Manager Mike Hawes.

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The Kings have also announced the commitment of 2005 born forward Tai Ushio from Hokkaido, Japan.

Ushio is 5’9, 170 pounds from Hokkaido, Japan who spent the last two seasons with the Anchorage Wolverines of the North American Hockey League. In 87 games, Tai put up 45 goals and 42 assists for 87 points. He also added 5 goals and 5 assists in 14 playoff games.

Ushio has also represented Japan at the U-18, U-20, and Men’s levels, playing in 31 games, scoring 20 times and adding 9 assists. He earned the Best Forward award while recording the most goals and most points at the 2025 IIHF World Under-20 Division 1-B tournament.

Ushio is committed to University of Alaska-Fairbanks for 2026-2027.

Current Spruce King Kazumo Sasaki played on the same team with Ushio at the last two World Under-20 Tournaments.

“Tai is a gifted player who will add a lot of skill to our forward group. He will be leaned upon heavily to help drive our offense while also contributing in all areas of the ice. He is a a great addition to our program,” says Hawes.

Photo courtesy Prince George Spruce Kings