Sarnia Sting forward Theo Hill showing steady improvement

Sarnia Sting forward Theo Hill made solid improvements in his sophomore season.

While there is a tendency for players to suffer what is called “The dreaded sophomore slump,” that did not pertain to Hill who went from three goals and six points in his rookie season, to an 11 goal, 23- point campaign.

“I like to play fast, and I’m always looking for ways to make myself faster” Hill said. In terms of improvements he wants to make, he stated, “My shot needs some work.”

Following a stellar 2017/18 season, which saw the Hagersville resident score 13 goals and 38 points with the Brantford 99ers U16 Minor Midget AAA squad, Hill was drafted fifth round, 99th overall in the OHL draft by the Sarnia Sting.

“I had spoken to a few teams and I knew that Sarnia was up there as one of the interested teams,” Hill said. “I was waiting, and when I saw (on internet) that it was Sarnia, I along with my family were very pleased. We went out to dinner and celebrated.”

Hill also went on to add, “In Brantford Scott Rex (Brantford coach) really pushed me hard and really helped me achieve where I am today. My personal trainer Luke Vanmoerkerke also deserves so much credit.”

That first year in Sarnia, Hill experienced the ultimate thrill when on October 3rd during second period action he scored his first OHL goal which came with his parents in attendance during a 5-2 road loss against the Owen Sound Attack.

“It’s hard to explain. It’s just surreal being the first one,” Hill said about the goal. “I was so happy that my parents were there. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

When describing the goal, Hill went on to add, “I skated along the side wall, and I think it went in glove side.”

Judging his overall performance in his first two OHL seasons, Hill was very honest and showed his strong competitiveness as he stated, “I had a good season (this year) and took a big step. “My first year wasn’t as good. I really wanted to be better going in, (to second year) and I started the season well. It’s unfortunate we were all but out of a playoff spot.”

When play was stopped in March due to COVID-19, the Sting, who had about 10 games remaining, found themselves 10th in the Western Conference with 50 points.

Looking to the future, Hill couldn’t help but get excited about the prospects of his good friends Brenden Anderson who was selected in the 2019 OHL, 11th round 215th overall by the Kitchener Rangers and Steve LaForme who was chosen fifth round 91st. overall by the North Bay Battalion. LaForme however was traded this off-season to the Ottawa 67’s.

“I love it,” Hill said. “I live five to 10 minutes away from Brenden and Steve and I would be excited to play those two. They are great players. We have some great local talent.”

Growing up, Hill often got advice from his big brother Tyler Hill who played for the Ottawa 67’s and Guelph Storm.

“He’s someone I looked up to,” Theo Hill said. “He would often be trying to give me some tips. He’s my role model.”

This year, Hill is eligible for the NHL draft, but only a couple of teams have been in contact.

“I’m just hoping for the best,” Hill said. “It would be special.”

No doubt, it’s an exciting time for this 18- year-old, who has the entire Six Nations community rooting him on.

 

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