Quinton Waitzner isn't satisfied just with getting a contract from the Swift Current Broncos.

16-year-olds typically have a difficult time making WHL rosters. Especially when they aren't first round bantam draft picks.

That doesn't mean the Victoria product is going to let being a 9th round bantam draft pick hold him back. He's gunning for a job.

"I'm trying to make a big impression here to make the team this year," Waitzner said. "Because I think I can make this team I'm really trying to cut back on my mistakes and make the right plays."

A 6'4 power forward, Waitzner knows the physical side of his game is going to be key in turning the heads of coaches.

"The physical element of my game I think is the biggest part of my game," he noted. "That's why the Swift Current Broncos liked me the most because every team needs a big powerful player."

As a young player of course there is lots for him to work on even if he does make the team.

"I think I need to work on my puck handling," Waitzner said. "(Also) making decisions out of my zone and hopefully getting a better shot."

The Broncos signed Waitzner this summer after he put up 17 points in 18 games for Shawnigan Lake School Varsity in the CSSHL last season. 

"It showed a lot of faith in me," Waitzner said. "Being signed has always been a dream of mine. When the opportunity came my way there was no question I wanted to be part of the organization. Now being one of their players I want to make team this year."

It's a record of developing players that made the Broncos attractive to Waitzner.

"They moved a lot of guys to the NHL which I someday want to make it to," he said. "Being a part of the WHL is a huge step for me and I really want to make that step."

Waitzner and other young players will make their WHL pre-season debuts tonight as the Broncos visit the Moose Jaw Warriors in the annual rookie game between the two clubs. He's gearing up to make an impression in exhibition action.

"In those games I really want to show that I'm physical," Waitzer said. "(Show) that I'm the strongest player out there. I want to show my speed and I want to be first to the puck all the time so I can show them my whole game."

Other 16-year-olds making a push for the Broncos this season include Riley Stotts, Owen Blocker and goaltender Joel Hofer. Swift Current didn't keep any 16-year-olds on their roster last season.