Nova Scotia hockey player reflects on Youth Olympics

Jared McIsaac, a 15-year-old defenceman originally from Truro, N.S., says being part of Team Canada for the Youth Olympics in Lillehammer, Norway was a dream come true.

"It's something I've dreamt about as a kid playing, wearing the Canadian jersey," said McIsaac over the phone shortly after the game against Team U.S.A.

Canada took home the silver medal after losing to the Americans 5-2 Sunday. McIsaac is the only player on the team from Nova Scotia.

'Experience of a lifetime'

"It's obviously unfortunate that we didn't come and get the gold, but it's been a great experience and kudos to Hockey Canada for everything they've done for all the players. It was an experience of a lifetime and I definitely won't forget it."

McIsaac says he started skating when he was three and started playing hockey when he was four. He moved to Dartmouth three years ago to play hockey. He is in grade 10 and attends the Maritime Varsity Academy.

Danny MacKinnon is McIsaac's hockey coach at school and for the Cole Harbour Wolfpack. The Wolfpack had a game Sunday afternoon the same time McIsaac was on the ice in Norway.

"I know the guys were following along on Twitter and the social media feeds and everything so you know, we as the coaching staff had it on in the coaching room before our game today," said MacKinnon.

"He's a really good defenceman," he said, "[McIsaac] is a good player and off the ice, he's an even better person."

McIsaac and his family return home to Nova Scotia Monday.