Jackson Kostiuk returns to Steinbach Pistons

The Steinbach Pistons got a massive boost in firepower Dec. 18, as the team announced Jackson Kostiuk is back in Steinbach.

Kostiuk signed with the Prince Albert Raiders of the Western Hockey League following the NCAA’s rule changes around eligibility late last year. American colleges now allow players who suited up in major junior to play in the NCAA’s top division.

Kostiuk had three goals and an assist in 14 games so far for the Raiders this year.

The 2006-born East St Paul product made his Steinbach debut in the 2022/2023 season, suiting up for a pair of games as an affiliate player while enjoying a standout season at the Rink Hockey Academy for their U18 team.

After a solid season in 2023/2024 with 31 points in 45 games, he was in the middle of a breakout campaign in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League before moving to Prince Albert.

In 29 games Kostiuk had 11 goals and 23 assists, scoring at well over a point-per-game pace for Steinbach. He was part of the Team Canada West roster that won a bronze medal at the 2024 World Junior A Challenge.