Ryan Applin Makes His Mark in the Herder Finals

Ryan Applin certainly turned some heads during the 2026 Herder Memorial Championship Finals.

Less than a week after finishing his high school hockey tournament, Applin joined the Deer Lake Red Wings as an affiliate player and stepped directly onto one of the biggest stages in Newfoundland and Labrador senior hockey.

Despite the significant jump in competition, the young defenceman did not look out of place. He played with confidence, kept pace with his new teammates and appeared as though he had been part of the Red Wings lineup all season.

Applin’s strong showing was highlighted by this goal against the CBS Baker Flooring Blues in CBS. After receiving a well-placed feed from Red Wings forward Peyton Hoyt, Applin made no mistake and found the back of the net.

Take a look at the goal below.