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Senators reel in Nick Foligno

BY SCOTT HADDOW Sudbury Wolves forward Nick Foligno knows how to cause a commotion.
Ottawa_Nick

BY SCOTT HADDOW

Sudbury Wolves forward Nick Foligno knows how to cause a commotion.


Over the last two seasons, the slick and gritty forward has delighted local fans with his puck skills and willingness to get involved in any play to help the team out.

He has been in the middle of a few battles on the ice, causing big commotions for opposing teams.

Last Saturday, Foligno caused another big commotion when he was selected 28th overall by the Ottawa Senators, in the first round, of the 2006 NHL Entry Draft.

Click to view more photos of Nick Foligno   view more photos

Many top scouting firms had the youngster placed in the Top-40, projecting he could be an early second selection.

The Senators thought differently and saw enough of Foligno's ability  to call his name with the 28th selection.

In an instant, Foligno was embraced by his entire family, who had travelled with him to Vancouver for the biggest day of his hockey career.

"It's just a great feeling to have my dream come true to be drafted," said the 18 year old. "It's even better since it was a great organization like Ottawa that picked me. I am going to go in there and just have fun and enjoy myself."

Hearing his name ring out over the speakers caught Foligno off guard.

"I was a little bit surprised," said the gritty forward. "It was still shocking to hear my name, especially in the first round. To have my family there and share it with me was an awesome feeling. There was nothing better than that."

Foligno's father, Mike, head coach and GM of the Wolves and a former first round NHL draft pick himself (third overall to Detroit in 1979), was obviously thrilled with the monumental achievement.

"It was a special day for him and our family," said Mike. "I am happy he went to a quality organization such as Ottawa. There's a real sense of pride in the family."

Foligno was still in a state of shock when he went up on the main stage to shake Senators' GM John Muckler's hand. Once the two met and Foligno pulled on the jersey for the first time, it really sank in deep.

"Every kid dreams of putting on a NHL jersey. Having it become a reality is a great feeling. It makes me think about all the hard work I've done and that it has paid off. I can't wait for the future."

Despite the high selection, Foligno isn't going to change his habits and style of play.

"My approach to the game isn't going to change," said the Wolves 2005-06 leading scorer. "I'm just going to do my best."

Foligno is spending a few days with the Senators for the rookie development camp.

Foligno has also caused a commotion for Ottawa fans.

In an on-line poll on the Ottawa website, over 63 percent of fans voted Foligno as the prospect who gets them the most excited.

 Foligno's teammate Devin DiDiomete was also picked, in the seventh round, 187th overall, by Calgary.


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