Written by: Scott Savard
Headline graphic: Scott Savard
Headline photo: Chad Goddard
Okotoks, AB (June 26, 2026) – The Okotoks Oilers are proud to announce that Ryder de Nys (Canmore, AB) has committed to joining the Ontario Tech University Ridgebacks of U SPORTS for the 2026-2027 season.
de Nys was originally going to the University of Calgary, but has now made the move to join the Ridgebacks after putting on an Okotoks Oiler uniform for the past four seasons. In those four seasons, the Oilers’ assistant captain posted 51 points (8G, 43A) in 135 games.
Oilers Head Coach and GM, Tyler Deis, is excited that de Nys will continue his hockey career in U SPORTS.
“Ryder came to Okotoks four seasons ago and in that time has grown as a player and a person. He was committed to our organization and helped in creating the culture of the Oilers,” Deis said.
de Nys first appeared in an Oilers uniform during the 2022-2023 season, where he posted five points (2G, 3A) in 13 games before being heavily relied on the Green and Gold’s blue line for the next three seasons and then earning the assistant captain honours last season.
In the four seasons de Nys was with the Green and Gold, he was a part of many changes, including the move to the BCHL. In that time, de Nys has not only grown as a person, as shown by his leadership, but has also continued to improve on the ice with his high hockey IQ.
“We are excited for him to be continuing his hockey career with Ontario Tech next season. They will be getting a guy who is committed to growing, learning, and will make an impact with his hockey IQ and skill,” he said.
Ontario Tech University is located in Oshawa, ON, and will be the farthest team away from de Nys’ hometown that he has suited up for come this fall.
The Oilers Organization wishes de Nys the best as he pursues his post-secondary hockey career.
The Okotoks Oilers are a not-for-profit, community-run junior hockey franchise competing in the BCHL and operating out of Viking Rentals Centre. For more information, visit okotoksoilers.com or follow the Oilers on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram.
