A young Interlake hockey player is being recognized for his hard work, dedication and leadership both on and off the ice.
Ethan Corbett has been named one of the 2025 Winnipeg Jets Alumni and Friends scholarship recipients, an honour presented annually to standout young Manitobans who demonstrate excellence in academics, athletics and community involvement.
Corbett accepted the award during a special presentation at a recent Jets home game, where he was celebrated alongside fellow recipient Sydney Haggart. Surrounded by cheering fans and members of the Jets alumni, Corbett was all smiles as he received the plaque and posed for photos on the concourse.
The scholarship program, established by the Winnipeg Jets Alumni and Friends Association, is designed to support the next generation of student-athletes as they pursue their educational and athletic goals. Recipients are chosen for their commitment to hockey, strong academic achievement and contributions to their communities.
Corbett said the news came as a surprise.
“I received a text out of the blue from Ray Neufeld, the Winnipeg Jets Alumni ambassador, asking if he could give me a call about being the recipient of the scholarship,” he said. “It was very unexpected. I wasn’t sure I believed it at first but, of course, I was more than happy to be chosen.”
The Warren Collegiate graduate reflected on the recognition as one of the highlights of his young life.
“It is definitely an honour. I thoroughly enjoyed my experiences with Manitoba High School Athletics Association, my three years with the Warren Wildcats hockey team and my four years at Warren Collegiate,” Corbett said. “To be recognized by the Winnipeg Jets Alumni is something I never would have even thought possible. It really means a lot and it will be remembered as a highlight in my life so far.”
Standing on the concourse in front of thousands of Jets fans added to the surreal experience.
“It was for sure the most people I have ever had looking at me at one time in my life,” he said. “I would compare it to getting ready to compete in an important hockey game or the moments before the start gun goes off in a provincial track or cross-country race — exciting and a bit of nerves all at the same time.”
Corbett’s hockey journey began at age seven with Warren Minor Hockey. By Grade 10, he was part of the revived Warren Wildcats high school team, which had been inactive for seven years. He said it gave him the “perfect teenage hockey experience,” sharing the ice with friends he also spent time with at school.
A defensive player, Corbett describes himself as hardworking, positive and team-focused. Among his favourite memories are finishing second in the league in his senior year and competing alongside close friends.
Hockey — along with other sports such as track and cross-country — has shaped who he is today.
“Playing hockey and being active in many other sports has helped me build friendships and learn the importance of hard work and dedication,” Corbett said. “I strive to always be the best that I can be and I hope this carries forward in my life in general.”
Balancing athletics and academics came naturally thanks to high school hockey’s after-school format.
“For me, high school hockey allowed me to competitively play a sport I enjoyed in the winter. In the off-season, I could focus on other sports, mostly long-distance running, which I would not have wanted to give up,” he said. “With high school hockey being after school and mostly during the week only, I was able to easily balance school and my other interests.”
Now a student in the agriculture diploma program at the University of Manitoba, Corbett hopes to one day take over his family’s grain farm while adding trade skills such as mechanics or welding to his tool set. On the ice, he plans to continue playing junior hockey in the Hanover Tache league and eventually move into senior men’s hockey.
The scholarship also recognizes community leadership — something Corbett values deeply. He has been active in school leadership and sports-related volunteer projects, and said giving back will remain an important part of his life.
“I am very fortunate to have grown up in this great community and I have witnessed the hard work of many volunteers in so many ways,” he said. “Local clubs and organizations will count on the younger generations to continue to keep our communities thriving. I want to be part of that.”
When asked about his biggest influence, Corbett pointed to his father.
“I have grown up watching him put hours and hours into various hockey organizations and teaching himself about life and the world around us,” he said. “He has helped me realize that even if you aren’t the most naturally talented player on the ice, hard work and dedication can get you to where you want to be.”
As for advice to younger athletes, Corbett encouraged them to enjoy the process.
“Be who you want to be and do what is best for you,” he said. “If you find what you love and want to follow your passion, that is great too. Just make sure you always enjoy what you do and work hard to be the best that you can be.”
For Corbett, the scholarship is more than financial support — it’s a lasting reminder of his values.
“The experience from this scholarship will be a lasting memory that will remind me of the importance of hard work and being the best person that I can be in all aspects of life,” he said.
