Riley Gannon. Credit: Matthew Wolfe
Sad, But Looking Forward To What’s To Come
Waking up the day after his final game of Major Junior Hockey, the reality began to hit him.
“It’s super emotional…” Riley Gannon barely got the words out.
“I’m getting emotional right now.” He paused, choking back the tears.
Understandable from the four year Royal, Gannon saw his career come to a close one night earlier as Victoria fell 4-3 in a shoot out to the visiting Everett Silvertips.
As a 20 year old, he graduates from the league, along with Jake Poole and Alex Thacker.
It’s time to clean out the locker, have an exit interview with the brass, and say his final goodbyes.
“It’s very weird coming to and end…” said Gannon as tries to come to grips with closing a big chapter in his life.
“I didn’t think it ever was going to happen, but when the time was counting down – it didn’t feel real. Now that it’s officially over it’s definitely different.”
Gannon pulled off the rare feat of making the jump from Junior ‘B’, right to the WHL.
In 194 career games, he scored 41 goals, added 36 assists for 77 points.
“I’m super grateful for everything that happened here. It’s been an amazing time, I’m super proud of everything I’ve done here.”
Victoria had an injury riddled season, and will miss the post season for a second consecutive year.
Gannon was one of 4 Royals who managed to play every single game.
“There was ups and downs personally, and as a team. I definitely enjoyed it and had fun, and that’s all that matters…in the end I’m happy with how everthing went.”
Along with scoring his first WHL goal, Riley reflects on some memories he’ll never forget.
“My first game in Everett was amazing, the barn was full, and I had never played for more that 200 people before…last night (in Victoria, with a near capacity crowd) was very special too.”
With 4 years of paid tuition thanks to the WHL Scholarship fund, school is on his radar, however he just hasn’t decided where yet – but hockey will be involved too.
Up next, Gannon looks forward to spending some time off in his hometown of Nanaimo first, doing some fishing and taking on a job.
As to what he believes next season holds for the group?
“They’ve got a very bright future, a lot of young, strong players, especially the affiliates – they’re way beyond their years. Good veteran players too, they’re going to be a very tough team to beat.”
Gannon also cautions the younger players to maximize every moment.
“Just play your heart out every game. Come in, even if you don’t want to some days and just enjoy it. Never take anything for granted, because you never know when it’s going to be your last day.”
While it feels like just yesterday he was at his first camp, Gannon has grown as player and more importantly matured into and outstanding young man.
“It’s sad, but I’m definitely looking forward to what’s to come.”
– Marlon Martens
