Deven Stillar steps up and takes game to new level

BY SCOTT HADDOW

Once Sudbury Nickel Capital Wolves forward Deven Stillar hit the grand stage for AAA midget hockey, he put on the best performance of his entire career.

At the 2008 TELUS Cup, which Sudbury won, Stillar lead the tournament in overall scoring and cemented his status as one of the game's elite players.

Stillar rose to the challenge of playing against the best teams from across Canada, as did his teammates, and got better and better as the event wore on.

He saved his absolute finest plays for the semi-final game versus Calgary - one goal, three points and Player of the Game honours and the gold medal game - one goal, three points and Player of the Game honours.

Not bad for a guy who missed half of the GNML regular season with a broken hand.
Stillar scored some sensational backhand goals at the tournament and, in the process, scored countless numbers of fans.

In seven games, Stillar recorded six goals and 15 points, including two goals and six points in the semi-final game and gold medal final.

"It was an unreal week," the 17-year-old said. "It's been a great way to compare myself against the best. It was a once-in-a-life-time opportunity and we didn't waste it...I couldn't have asked for anything better. It's something I will never forget."

Stillar is hoping the experience and his performance will help propel him onto the next level, whether it be the NCAA or possibly the OHL route.

"Obviously I'm looking ahead to what could be next for me...playing in the TELUS Cup has given me and the other guys an experience not too many players get," he said. "It got us all more exposure and it could help me take my next step in hockey."

The coaching staff has full confidence in Stillar, and head coach Peter Michelutti Jr., who played NCAA hockey, sees the stocky winger as a player who could easily make the jump to the college ranks of the United States.

"Deven has the potential and the character," said the bench boss. "He's smart and knows how to handle himself in unique situations. He can do it all on and off the ice...he can lead, score, make plays, hit, you name it. He's a true warrior."

Stillar endeared himself to his teammates all season with his gritty performances. They like the fact he can be a calming influence on the players and always have the ability to inject reasoning in difficult situations.

"Deven knows a lot about the game, so when he talks, you listen and take it seriously," captain Mathieu Lecours said.
Stillar and his linemates Denis Restoule and Stefan Herrington, formed Sudbury's most potent and explosive line at the TELUS Cup. The terrific trio combined for 15 goals and 31 points in seven games and were a key reason Sudbury realized gold.

Stillar missed 17 games during the GNML regular season but came back with a vengeance in the playoffs. In 17 regular season games, he produced 18 goals and 34 points. In 10 playoff games, he piled up eight goals and 27 points. He then tallied two goals and three points at the Central Canadian Championship followed by his bust out performance at the AAA midget championship. It was a brilliant way to cap his season especially after missing so much time recovering from a busted hand.

"Through it all...I've learned what I've needed to do to be able to play my best every game by playing against the best," the 5-11 winger said. "Missing all those games...was tough."

Stillar has given plenty of teams in the NCAA and OHL a lot to think about. "Deven took his game to whole new level at nationals," Michelutti Jr. said. "He was physical, assertive and scored big-time goals. He was a great leader on-and-off the ice. We had always looked to Deven to be a go-to-guy and he came through time and time again for us. He's opened a lot of eyes as far as what he can do in hockey."

Since Stillar has arrived back home in Sudbury, the telephone at his house has been ringing off the hook from scouts, coaches and managers of hockey teams. Junior B, Junior A and Major Junior teams and NCAA schools have been going crazy trying to land the services of the gritty forward. Stillar is going to take some time to think about his options.