Credit: Gord Rufh
Making A Difference Off The Ice
Just 4 games played.
That’s all 19 year old defenceman Gannon Laroque suited up for, essentially missing an entire season of development.
“Yeah, just very frustrating…
It was supposed to be a career year, and expectations where high after a big summer.
Laroque was named Captain of the Royals, played pro hockey in the AHL, signed with the NHL’s San Jose Sharks, and was awarded BC Division Defenceman Of The Year.
“I was coming off just signing my first contract and hoping to play with a lot of motivation to prove people wrong, and prove people right – but obviously that didn’t happen.”
He missed the start of the season, and didn’t suit up until early January, making an immediate impact with 5 points in 4 games overall, including 2 goals.
The club then rested him as per protocol when returning from injury, but that was prolonged and he was eventually sidelined, and missed the remainder of the season.
“It’s just a really big summer for me to continue to improve.”
It’s been a long road to recovery, as he sets his sights now playing for the AHL Barracuda, however by sounds of it, not any time in the near future.
“Yeah, that’s my goal next year. That’s what I’m aiming at…it’s gonna be a lot of hard work and I want to be ready for it.”
Selfishly, Royals fans would love to see him back as an overager.
According to HC/GM Dan Price, that’s a possibility.
“He’s played less than 90 games of junior, so there is a realistic chance the Sharks could return him to us next season.” Price told Cleve Dheensaw of the Times Colonist,
His return would be a huge boost to the roster.
What does Laroque think of that possibility?
“I mean, yes…but I’m just really looking to do everything I can to make the Pros.”
While unable to help on the ice, Laroque was busy making a difference off the ice.
He was the recipient of the Royals Community Service Award. Something he feels truly honoured with.
“It’s actually really big to me.
Trying to do everything I can for the community…trying to do my part, show leadership, and show the younger guys what I can do – and kind of leave a legacy.”
He was also able to contribute as a mentor to the other players, and gave advice to the young defensive core.
“Just not standing still at the blue line, I think it’s huge in today’s day and age. Look at Cale Makar just mobile all the time, trying to be active in the neutral zone and moving, being quick, not trying to over complicate things.
I think just mentorship off the ice, and just trying to do everything I can, is what I’m leaning towards.”
It’s been back to back seasons where the team was riddled with injuries, so it comes as no surprise they were left on the outside of playoff picture looking in, again.
“It’s really tough to think about (what could’ve been), obviously it didn’t happen, and you know the it’s gonna be really important to the guys coming back next year…So It’ll be good.”
– Marlon Martens
