By Kris Smith
The 2022 World Junior Championships, Division 2A begun on Sunday as GB faced the host nation in their opening game and the Brits came away as 4-3 winners, after battling back from being down 2-0 and 3-2.
The 18-year-old contributed with two assists as he played a role in the setup for Bayley Harewood’s powerplay equaliser to make it 2-2 and then he played the pass to Jack Hopkins as he scored what would be the game-winner in the third period, whilst having the man advantage.
Today GB take on Croatia (2pm FO), before they face Croatia tomorrow (10:30pm FO), the Netherlands on Friday (2pm FO) and their final game on Saturday against Spain (10:30pm FO).
Sharing his delight when he found out he would be part of the squad, McBean said: “I am very happy to get called up.
“Last year was my first year of trialling for the U20’s and I got picked in the reserves, so I was so close to making it but it definitely felt better seeing my name on that list this year and I am delighted to get picked.
“It is my first time going away with GB, so I am excited for that also but I do not really know what to expect.
“I am sure it will be a great experience as well because this is my last year before the seniors and that is a big ask to get into, so I am really happy to be part of the U20’s this year.”
The GB U20’s Head Coach, Martin Grubb is also McBean’s coach at Solway Sharks, where he plays as part of his two-way deal with the Stars and the Dundonian is happy to be working with Grubb even more.
“Obviously I am happy to be working more with Martin, he is a great coach and knows me well and what I can do, so that is a positive”, added Jonathan.
He continued: “The two-way has been really beneficial, I have never been on the ice this much in my life – it is every single day and Friday is twice a-day as well.
“Then going down to Solway to get the game time I need too, because training can only do so much for you.
“You need to go and get that game experience, so the ice time in Solway has been great and I think the deal benefits everyone.”
Everyone at the Trade-Mart Dundee Stars is proud of Johnny and wish him and his teammates all the best for the tournament.
