Photo Credit: Alan Douglas @adouglasphotos
You Always Want To Win Your Last Game
The pressure was on.
Score and keep the shoot out alive. Miss, and it’s all over.
Alex Thacker picked up the puck at center, moved in with a deke, but ran out of real estate.
The puck rolled wide and the game, and more importantly his time in the WHL, came to a close.
“They way it ended like that was really emotional for me. I wanted to win that game…but I enjoyed every moment in that game, and being around the guys.”
The Royals were edged 4-3 in a shoot out by the Silvertips.
Photo Credit: Gord Rufh
For most graduating 20 year olds, the realization that it’s over is stunning.
“No, It doesn’t feel real right now. It feels like I’m coming to the rink tomorrow, getting ready to practice, and another set of games.”
It’s been a season of ups and downs for the club, a lot of injuries a big contributer to missing the post season for a second consecutive year.
However, the group found a way to earn 5 of a possible 6 points in their final three contests.
“We’ve done a lot better recently, and moving forward we know what we have to do to get better. This summer is going to be a good opportunity to improve for next year, and do really well.”
From entering the league as a young 17 year old with the Lethbridge Hurricanes, to exiting 4 years later with facial hair and and an air of maturity, Thacker feels he’s grown a lot this past season as a person.
“Huge year. Especially with injuries, you get to know a lot about yourself and your body and how to prepare for games and everyday life.
I get to rest now, which is nice now for the body – but wish it was in the playoffs.”
The Fort Saskatchewan native was able to eclipse the 200 career game mark. Earning 144 points in 204 games, including 144 assists.
“Feels amazing. Being in this league for so long and finally getting there is so awesome…”
So what now? Thacker has his sights set on attending the University of Alberta.
“Hopefully, and I can take the Arts there.”
School isn’t the end of the line for signing a deal. More and more University players are making the jump to professional levels.
“Yeah, that’s exactly what I’ve been thinking. That league is definitely is getting more recognition for pro leagues. If I end up in Europe or even North America, that would be huge.”
As he looks around the dressing room, where does Thacker feel the group is headed going into next year?
“A lot of potential for sure. Especially with the 16 year olds coming in, and everyone from the 2004 born group turning 19 is going to be a huge year for them. It’ll be a really exciting year in Victoria.”
– Marlon Martens
