By: Agrani Tiwari
From a young age, Ryland Landon’s life has been shaped by hockey. Inspired by his father, who first put him on the ice at age seven, Landon never looked back. Growing up, he spent countless hours watching Hockey Night in Canada with his dad, taking pointers and absorbing the passion for the game. “My dad was really into it,” he recalls, “He’d always give me pointers after every game.” That early encouragement laid the foundation for his path to the Ottawa West Golden Knights.
Now in his second year with the Knights, Landon is recognized for his role as a puck-moving defenseman with a defensive edge. His style is defined by his commitment to helping out his goalie, sharp playmaking, and ability to read the game from the back line. “I like helping the goalie out and commanding the play back there,” he explains. It’s his ability to blend offense with defense that sets him apart, and his leadership on and off the ice is invaluable.
A native of Arnprior, Landon’s journey began in the Arnprior Minor Hockey Association. He climbed through the ranks, playing for teams like the Aces and Ottawa Valley Titans, before joining the Pembroke Lumber Kings. His hard work paid off when he was drafted to the OHL’s Ottawa 67’s at just 15—a moment he still considers one of his proudest. Though he faced a setback with a fractured tibia in AAA, he’s grateful for a largely injury-free career.
In addition to his dedication to hockey, Landon is pursuing a degree in civil engineering at Carleton University. For him, balancing hockey and academics is a key priority. “This is a great place to play while you’re in school,” he says, “but my professional career goal is in engineering.” While he may not have NHL aspirations, Landon’s commitment to excelling in his sport and studies highlights his disciplined approach.
Off the ice, Landon who is one of the assistant captains, is a role model in the locker room. Known for his humor and approachability, he’s someone rookies can look up to, keeping the atmosphere light but focused. “Being a leader is something you learn a lot from,” he shares.
When it comes to game-day rituals, Landon has one unique superstition: he keeps his stick upright under the Knights’ logo before every game. It’s a tradition that started during his first game with the team, and he’s continued it ever since.
For Landon, there’s no greater feeling than playing alongside his teammates. His favorite part of being with the Knights is “the guys” he shares the rink with each day. Together, they form a tight-knit group that has fueled many memorable games, including last year’s thrilling comeback victory in the playoffs against Castleman. As he continues to grow both as a player and a leader, Ryland Landon remains a steadfast pillar of the Ottawa West Golden Knights, embodying the team’s spirit and dedication.
