05/22/2026
The final original Nighthawk from the franchise’s inaugural season is leaving the nest as a League and National Champion.
Merik Boles — from Lorette, Manitoba — is the last remaining franchise player from the inception of the Niverville Nighthawks. Coming off a strong season with the Eastman Selects, Boles suited up on opening night at the Niverville Community Resource and Recreation Centre on September 17, 2022, as the expansion Nighthawks played the first home game in franchise history.
The 2005-born forward appeared in 215 regular season games, recording 52 goals and 101 assists for 153 points.
Boles was instrumental in the team’s first Turnbull Cup Championship, posting 14 points in 12 playoff games.
Following an exceptional season and playoff run, he added 2 goals and 6 assists in 6 games at the Centennial Cup, helping bring the national championship back to Manitoba for the first time since 2015, when the Portage Terriers captured the title on home ice as tournament hosts.
Boles has committed to the University of Regina, where he will suit up for the Cougars next season.
Congratulations on an outstanding Junior career, Merik!