Mark Thurston surpasses the 100 career BCHL game milestone

MERRITT – Merritt Centennials assistant captain, Mark Thurston, has joined the 100 career BCHL games club.

Thurston passed the milestone on January 25 against the West Kelowna Warriors.

“Feels cool, honestly didn’t even notice it until I checked my elite prospects one day and I was like ‘oh I hit a 100’,” said Mark Thurston. “It hasn’t felt that long, it goes by pretty quick. It’s been a pretty cool experience the whole way.”

As the games have gone along, Thurston said not much has changed other than the experience.

“I haven’t changed much but I have definitely grown into the league a bit more as I have gotten older. It’s been a process for sure but I think I fit in pretty well now with the league and I’m definitely one of those veteran players on this team.”

The 19-year-old has spent his entire BCHL career with the Merritt Centennials.

“I’ve seen a lot go on, I’ve seen a lot of people come and go, but it’s been good. The town has been good. Through a lot of working here, I’ve gotten to know a lot of people, I’ve got a lot of connections with people so it’s been really good.”

Throughout his BCHL journey, Thurston has now landed himself a captaincy role, something that was a pleasant surprise to him.

“It’s always kind of been something I’ve thought about but I understand all the other stuff, but it’s been cool. I’ve been captain on other teams before and I always thought I could be one of those role players but yeah it’s an honour.”

As the most experienced BCHL player on this team, Thurston gave his number one tip to those that are just starting out.

“Just stick with the process. My first year I played a lot but I wasn’t a top line guy, I was near the bottom, and I just kind of made myself, my position, and coaches understand how I play so just play your way and stick to it.”

Up until this point, the North Delta, B.C. native has played in 103 career games, scoring 10 goals and adding in 9 assists for 19 points. This season has been his best offensive season, potting 5 goals and 3 assists for 8 points in 38 games, those scoring numbers are BCHL career highs for Thurston.