Jesse Jenks could still be plying his trade in the BCHL as a 1995-born goalie but he’s showing he’s ready for NCAA action and posted sparkling numbers last weekend to earn the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA) rookie of the week nod.
The native of Crofton, B.C. was in net both nights for the University of Alaska Nanooks and backstopped them to an undefeated weekend. Jenks made 25 saves in a 2-1 win Dec. 11 over state rival Alaska-Anchorage and followed up with 32 stops in a 1-1 draw the next night.
His 57-of-59 showing in the saves category resulted in a .966 save percentage, the best among NCAA rookies for the weekend.
Jenks’ performance allowed Alaska to take three of a possible four points in the opening round of the Alaska Airlines Governor’s Cup. The final two games between the Alaska schools to determine the winner will be played March 4 and 5.
With Prince George in the BCHL, Jenks compiled a 25-27-2 record with six shutouts and a .904 save percentage in two season and 55 career games. He was the No. goalie for Team Canada West in the 2013 World Junior A Challenge and helped the team to a bronze medal.
