BY SCOTT
HADDOW
For his first two seasons with the Kal Tire Sudbury Junior
Wolves, Matt Chiupka did what was asked of him to help the team
win.
He plied his trade as an effective two-way forward, doing the
not-so-glorious jobs, while others basked in the spotlight.
Every game, every practice, Chiupka showed up and gave the
proverbial 100 percent.
He learned tricks of the trade from some of the best in junior
hockey such as former captain Brian McGarry and former coach
Darryl Moxam.
Like a picky sponge, he absorbed what he felt was the best from
the best.
He learned what it took to win and, more importantly, he
learned how to lead.
Last year, the Junior Wolves marched through the NOJHL, taking
the league title in six games over North Bay, before losing in
overtime in the final game of the Dudley Hewitt Cup. It was a
costly loss, as winning would have put the club in the national
championship.
In the off season, the franchise went through major changes as
numerous veterans graduated and an entire new coaching staff
was hired.
When new head coach Tom Faganely started his search for a new
captain, he didn't have to look far down the bench and selected
Chiupka as the new team leader.
Faganely picked Chiupka because of his experience,
accountability and professional approach to the game.
Chiupka has taken the role and run with it.
"It's a big responsibility, but I was ready for it and wanted
it," said the former Lasalle Secondary student. "I'm a good
leader on and off the ice. I get the boys going. I'm a loud
speaker, so I speak up when I have to. It's been going
well...people are listening to me. It hasn't got me more
respect around the league, but I'm sure it will come."
Chiupka has not just responded well to being the captain, but
also to his expanded role as a productive forward.
In his first eight games, he scored six goals and 14 points and
well on his way to shattering his personal best marks. In his
first season, he picked up five goals and 19 points in 48
games. Last year, he had seven goals and 25 points in 48
games.
"I give credit to the guys I play with - Scott Restoule and
Ryan Mathes," said the five-foot-11, 185-pound forward. "They
get me the puck and when I get them the puck, they
capitalize."
Chiupka wants to go to a national championship and knows what
it will take.
"I want us to go to the Dudley Hewitt Cup again and do one
better by winning it," said the 19-year-old. "Last year's loss
drives me...it was a heart-breaker.  I'm confident we have
the right group of guys to get it done. It's a realistic goal
as long as everyone stays on the same page. As captain, with
the help of the assistant captains, we have to step up and show
the boys what can be achieved by staying on the same page, like
last year."
Faganely knows he made the right choice.
"Matt's a solid leader," said the bench boss. "He leads by
example and says the right things in the dressing room. He's
producing more offensively...he comes through when he has to.
He's doing his fair share. Matt's good around the net and very
smart."
Chiupka bring an infectious attitude to the squad.
"I bring hard work...all the time," said the Cambrian College
fitness and leisure management student. "I expect the same from
my teammates."
Chiupka and the Junior Wolves are in action tonight as they
face the Soo Indians. Game time at the McClelland Arena is 7:30
pm.
