Inari Twain has made a life in hockey, even at the age of 19, out of defying expectations. Standing short at only 5’9”, Twain’s drafting in the 9th round wasn’t unexpected or bothersome to the feisty Finn. In fact, Inari welcomed the late round selection by the Vancouver Whalers. “I’ve always said I preferred a challenge. I welcome it for myself, my future.”
Sure enough, Twain has always been a late bloomer, as he recalls, only just recently getting his growth spurt to his current height. Nevertheless, Twain is known for his aggressive work ethic, and powerful stride, something he honed skating up and down the hills in his hometown on rollerblades. Unconventional? Yes, but so are Inari’s outlooks on his drafting. “I didn’t expect to even get drafted, so now I know who is in my corner, you know? I know who believed in me day one. There is not a lot of ways you can get that kind of knowledge and support in life. I welcome it, and I am excited about the chance to be part of an organization that has already given me so much.”
Twain looks to be part of an exciting Vancouver Whalers team that should cause fits for every other team in the SMJHL. If Twain can keep his determination, he just might reward the Whalers with a coveted late draft steal.


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