Getting to know the Royals: Justin Kipkie

At just 18 years old, Justin Kipkie has already made a significant impact in the world of hockey. Drafted by the Royals in the 6th round of the 2020 WHL Prospects Draft and subsequently picked by the Arizona Coyotes in the 2023 NHL Draft, Kipkie has flourished in second full season with the Royals, scoring seven goals and adding 17 assists for 24 points to this point.

Can you share a bit about your hockey journey, from when you first started playing to where you are now? Any memorable moments or milestones along the way?

“I grew up in North Vancouver and started skating around four years old. I played minor hockey for a couple of years in North Vancouver before moving to Calgary in 2012. My Dad coached me through my minor hockey career, along with my two younger brothers. My mom was always very busy driving us all around to get to our various events across Calgary. We always had a backyard rink to battle against my brothers every winter in Calgary. Played in Calgary until the 2022-23 season, when I moved to Victoria to play for the Royals. Getting drafted to the NHL, in the summer of 2023, is a very important milestone for me in my hockey career. It's another step in my journey to pursue a career in professional hockey, and I couldn't be more grateful to the Arizona Coyotes for giving me this opportunity to be a part of their organization.”

Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions that you follow before hitting the ice? How do you mentally prepare for a game?

“There is nothing too specific. I always eat my pre-game meal of chicken and pasta at the same time before every game. I tape my stick before every game as soon as I arrive at the rink. I'm able to prepare mentally through visualization of my own game which allows me to prepare for whatever opponent we face. Watching lots of videos on other teams also helps me to prepare mentally for the next opponent.”

Growing up, did you have any hockey players who inspired you or that you looked up to? How have they influenced your playing style or approach to the game?

“Growing up in North Vancouver, I enjoyed watching and cheering for the Vancouver Canucks. I was a big fan of the Sedin brothers and enjoyed watching Luongo in the net as I decided if I wanted to be a goalie. As I grew up, I started to look up to defensemen, Cale Makar and Victor Hedman are the ones who inspired me the most, and I try my best to model my game around their styles. Although they are both very different players, taking little things from each of them and trying to implement them in my own game creates my own personal playing style.”

What's your most memorable moment in an arena? It could be a goal, a win, or even a special interaction with fans. Share a moment that stands out to you.

“Scoring a hat trick in the Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre is definitely one of the most memorable moments in my career so far. The energy of our fans is amazing every time we play at home, and being able to hear that support after the overtime made the moment even more special. Interacting with our fans in public skates is also an amazing time to make connections to the community. I enjoy having that opportunity to meet our fans because their support means a lot to every player.”

When you're not on the ice, what are some of your favourite hobbies or activities? How do you like to unwind and recharge away from the hockey rink?

"Most of my days are spent in the hockey rink, but in the summertime, I will occasionally go golfing, which is a great way to unwind and take my mind off hockey. In-season, playing some video games with the boys is also a good way to recharge and relax while taking our minds off hockey.”

Where is your favourite spot in Victoria outside of the SOFMC?

“​​Quazar's Arcade. Gone there a couple times with the guys, it is a great way to have some fun with some old school arcade games!”