In a season that’s been full of highlights, Dom Čanić has emerged as one of the brightest. After a career playing for Croatia, stints in the USA, Canada and across European leagues, Dom joined the Canberra Brave for his inaugural season in the AIHL, immediately making an impact alongside the likes of Brandon McNally, Cameron Todd and Kale Costa.

A Global Game and a Kiwi Connection

Born in Auckland, New Zealand, Čanić’s hockey journey began at the age of three in Croatia. “I decided to play hockey because I was too young for every other sport I tried.”

That early love for the game took him through Sweden, Canada, the United States and Germany before the age of 20, but with New Zealand citizenship in his back pocket, the AIHL was always a potential pathway.

“It’s been something I’ve thought about for a few years. People reached out, but with uni and other commitments it was never the right time. Last summer, I decided I was going to do it.”

Initially eyeing the Ice Dogs, Čanić’s plans shifted when they withdrew from the 2025 season. After speaking with several AIHL teams, his conversations with the Brave stood out. “From talking to people inside the organisation and hearing such good things, I knew Canberra was where I wanted to be.”

Seamless Transition, Immediate Impact

Despite joining a new team in a new league on the other side of the world and coming off a tough injury that kept him off the ice for an extended period, Čanić has hit the ground running in Canberra.

Through his first 17 games, the 5’9” forward has exploded with 36 points (11 goals, 25 assists), leading not only the Brave but also putting himself among the league’s top scorers.

“Coming into the season, I was off the ice for a while. It took me a few games to get going, but I feel pretty good now.”

Though he’s clearly been a key scoreboard contributor, Čanić doesn’t view himself solely as a scorer. “I like to think of myself as a guy that contributes in every part of the game. Whether it’s on the penalty kill, forecheck, or scoring goals I try to be an all-round player.”

Team Culture and the Brave Brotherhood

Though used to the structure and routine of full-time professional hockey, Čanić has found something equally valuable in Canberra. “Back home hockey’s a job, but here, even though we don’t practice as much, everyone’s passionate. It’s a great group of players and people. It’s fun to win, and these boys want to win.”

The warm welcome and close-knit environment have only amplified his enjoyment. “Honestly, I’ve been treated so well. The people here are amazing. I have nothing but good things to say.”

From Brave Cave to AIS

Though his first home appearance came at the infamous Brave Cave, it’s the move to the Australian Institute of Sport that’s left a lasting impression. “I only got one game at the Cave, and it was awesome, but the AIS Arena is on another level.”

The temporary home of the Brave has brought a new level of professionalism to the organisation. “It feels like such a step up. The rink, the crowds, everything about it feels bigger. There are teams in good European leagues that don’t have a setup like this.”

It’s a statement, he believes, not just for the Brave but for hockey across Australia. “It shows that the sport is growing. It shows that people care and that the game has potential here. And it’s exciting to be part of that.”

Eyes on the Endgame

With 7 games left in the regular season, Čanić has his sights firmly set on one goal: playing the right way and winning when it counts. “We’ve been putting together some solid performances lately. The key is playing a full 60. That’s what it’s going to take in finals – it’s one and done.”

Čanić’s talent is undeniable, but it’s his energy, humility, and all-in attitude that has made him a fan favourite. If his first season is anything to go by, Brave fans may be witnessing the start of something truly special.