LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — As the bright lights of the Strip give way to the global stage, Shea Theodore is preparing for one of the greatest honors of his hockey career — representing Team Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy.
Ahead of his departure, Theodore sat down for an exclusive Salmond Sit Down, reflecting on what the opportunity means to him, his family, and the organization that helped elevate his game to an elite level.
For Theodore, wearing the Maple Leaf is more than just another tournament. It’s the realization of a childhood dream born on frozen rinks in British Columbia. He talked about the pride that comes with pulling on the red and white, acknowledging the pressure that follows Canadian hockey players onto the Olympic stage — and embracing it.
The Golden Knights’ blueliner also discussed how his growth with the Vegas franchise has prepared him for this moment. From quarterbacking the power play to logging heavy minutes in big playoff games, Theodore has evolved into one of the NHL’s most dynamic two-way defensemen. He credited the culture inside the Golden Knights locker room and the expectations set in Vegas as key factors in sharpening his game for international competition.
The conversation touched on the differences between NHL and Olympic play — the intensity of short tournaments, the challenge of building chemistry quickly, and the unique experience of competing in the historic setting of Milan and Cortina. Theodore acknowledged the talent-rich roster Canada will ice but emphasized the importance of structure, discipline, and defense — areas he prides himself on.
Meadow Rowland Shines Again — 4× Mountain West Player of the Week
Sophomore forward Meadow Rowland continues to leave her mark on the Mountain West Conference this season, earning Mountain West Player of the Week honors for the fourth time — and second week in a row for a Lady Rebel.
The 6-foot-2 redshirt sophomore led the Lady Rebels to a 1-1 week averaging a double-double of 28.5 points per game and 13.5 rebounds per game against Wyoming and Grand Canyon.
This milestone isn’t just another accolade; it’s proof of Rowland’s sustained excellence and leadership on the court. Across the latest stretch of games, she delivered jaw-dropping performances — including a dominant outing with 27 points and 15 rebounds in a crucial home win over Grand Canyon — helping keep UNLV competitive in the Mountain West standings.
Rowland has been nothing short of phenomenal this season. Her ability to consistently produce at a high level — scoring, rebounding, and impacting both ends of the floor — has made her a matchup nightmare for opponents and a cornerstone of the Lady Rebels’ success.
What makes this recognition even more special is how it reflects the team’s momentum. Having a Lady Rebel win the honor in back-to-back weeks speaks to the depth and tenacity of the squad, but Rowland’s name atop the list underscores her elite play and clutch contributions in big moments.
Beyond the numbers, Rowland’s poise and growth this season have elevated expectations. After earning Mountain West Freshman of the Year and Sixth Player of the Year last year, she’s not only building on that legacy — she’s firmly in the conversation for Mountain West Player of the Year.
In a league filled with talent, Rowland has consistently risen above. Her fourth Player of the Week honor isn’t just a milestone — it’s a statement about her impact, her consistency, and her leadership as the Lady Rebels push toward the stretch run of the season.