WHL

By Nick Dube

Prince George Cougars

Cougars standouts heading to Team Canada Selection Camp

Dec 11, 2025 | 4:59 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Two Prince George Cougars are headed to Niagra Falls after being selected to attend to the team Canada World Junior Selection Camp. “Yeah I was pretty speechless” said Cougars defenseman Carson Carels when he found out he would be joining teammate Joshua Ravensbergen at camp. At only 17 years old just being selected for camp is a rare honor but one befitting of Carels who has taken his game to new levels as he is projected to be a top pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. Despite being underage Carels already has a lot of international experience which he will take with him into camp as he tries to secure a place on the final roster.

“It feels great. It’s a 19 year old tournament and to do it two years younger it’s pretty special. I can’t go into that tournament thinking I’m 17, so going in to try and make that team.” said Carels.

Carels selection to Canada’s camp has showed just how far Carels has come in a short period of time. Cougars coaching staff are impressed with the growth.

“When you’re an underage and getting invited to the world junior camp you’re a special player. It’s a 19 year old tournament. There’s been some younger players who have had success, but you have to be at a certain level. We think Carson is that at that level and it’s it’s an unbelievable honor for him to be invited with that group.” said Cougars Head Coach Mark Lamb.

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Joining Carels in Niagra Falls is Cougars goaltender Joshua Ravensbergen. It should come as no surprise that Ravensbergen was selected to the team as he has been arguably the hottest goaltender in the WHL this season with a 16-6 record to go with a 2.50 goals against average and a .921 save percentage. Despite the stellar start to the season Ravensbergen says he is prepared to take advantage of the opportunity to compete to play during Christmas holidays.

“It’s an honor to get that call that you made the actual roster. Growing up, I always watched this tournament as a kid, wanting to play there one day and to get the opportunity to go to camp is something really special. I’m going to make most of it.” said Cougars Goaltender Joshua Ravensbergen.

The 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship officially begins on Boxing Day in Minneapolis and St. Paul Minnesota.