BY SCOTT
HADDOW
During the 2005-06 season, hockey player Scott Lavigne made a
major life decision which would impact his career for the rest
of his life.
While playing Major Junior hockey in the OHL for Toronto,
Lavigne got his release from the club to join the Kal Tire
Sudbury Junior Wolves - he was ready for a new challenge.
Little did Lavigne know that he set the wheels in motion for
him to represent Canada at an international event. He was
recently named to the Team Canada East roster for the upcoming
World Junior A Hockey Challenge, to be held in Yorkton and
Humboldt Saskatchewan from Nov. 6 to 12.
The event will feature Team Canada East squaring off against
Team Canada West, Russia, Belarus, Slovakia and Germany for
bragging rights.
Earning the right to wear the Canadian jersey left Lavigne
feel overwhelmed and overjoyed.
"It's a big honour," said the 19-year-old defender. "Just
the fact I get to represent my country, and try and win gold,
is mind-blowing. All I can do is hope I do my best to help the
team win. I wasn't expecting it at all and it was shocking."
Players for the Canadian rosters were selected from the 142
teams, which make up the Canadian Junior A Hockey League
(CJAHL). Lavigne feels privileged he was one of seven
defenceman to make the grade and be considered worthy of
wearing the Maple Leaf.
"It's a dream come true," said Lavigne. "It's something to
look forward to and something I will remember for the rest of
my life."
Lavigne is pumped an event of this calibre is being
contested, which showcases the talent level of the CJAHL.
"It's good...it's not the end of the world playing Tier II
hockey," said the six-foot-one defenceman. "There's always
somebody watching and to impress. There's so much exposure for
guys like me to showcase our talent. I want to play in Europe
in the future, so by playing against European teams in this
event, I might get noticed and help out my own cause."
Lavigne feels pressure, but knows he can't let it affect his
game.
"Once I get on the ice...the pressure will drop off and I
will calm down," said the 195-pound defender. "I will have to
raise my game. I will not be taking a shift off. I will go as
hard as I can."
Lavigne can't wait to soak up the experience and bring his
own brand of hockey.
"I've never done something like this before," said the
Sudbury native. "It's going to be awesome. I will bring some
offensive punch from the blue line. I am willing to sacrifice
my body...do anything to help. I am a utility player as well. I
hope to put up a few points. I'm not expecting a lot of
minutes...every minute I do get, I will make the most of it."
Team Canada East is getting a player who's all business and
one of the most dynamic players in the NOJHL.
"They're getting a real competitor," said Junior Wolves head
coach Tom Faganely. "He likes to play and win. He's a good
offensive defenceman with a great shot and good play making
skills. He never takes dumb penalties either."
Lavigne's inclusion on the squad was bolstered by the fact
he's the leading scorer in the NOJHL with three goals and 21
points in 11 games.
"I don't know what kind of role they have for him, but he
may have to accept less ice time," said Faganely. "It will be
interesting to follow. It's a nice feather in the cap for our
team."
Lavigne also hopes to bring back the experience to his
teammates and help them defend their NOJHL championship.
Sudbury Wolves prospect defenceman Alain Goulet was also
named to the East roster. He has been playing for the Aurora
Tigers of the OPJHL.
Junior Wolves forward Scott Restoule was named to the
reserve list for the East squad. If injuries take their toll,
Restoule could be pressed into service during the event.
Fans can catch Lavigne in action tonight as he and the Junior Wolves play North Bay. Game time at the McClelland Arena in Copper Cliff is 7:30 pm.
