Cochrane's Tyrel Bauer is among 44 hockey players invited to the U18 team selection camp for the 2019 Hlinka Gretzky Cup.

The defenceman is one of 16 Western Hockey League (WHL) players participating in the camp being hosted by Winsport in Calgary next month. In all, 44 players, including 16 defencemen, are competing for a chance to represent Canada at the international tournament.

“This is great for Ty,” said Thunderbirds general manager Bil La Forge. “The chance to play for your country against top international players in his age group will be a big step in his development. We’re looking forward to seeing him compete for a spot on Team Canada.”

In his rookie season, Bauer had two goals and 12 assists for 14 points in 64 regular season games. He also appeared in six playoff games and six preseason games. He accumulated 14 points on 47 shots on goal and had a +17 rating on the season.

The 6'3", 206 lb. Bauer was the Thunderbird's second pick and drafted 41st overall in the 2017 WHL draft  He made two appearances as a Thunderbird the previous season when he also played in 32 games with the Airdrie CFR Bisons and laced up for the Alberta Cup.

The Hlinka Gretzky Cup is being hosted by Breclav, Czech Republic, and Piestany, Slovakia from Aug. 5 to 10.