The Creston Valley Thunder Cats are pleased to announce the addition of defenceman Marc-Antoine Gagnon from St. Paul, Que., for the 2015-16 Kootenay International Junior Hockey League season.
Gagnon joins the Thunder Cats from the College de l’Assomption in l’Assomption, Que., where he captained his team during the 2014-15 season while recording 10 goals and 29 points in 30 games.
“Marc is a highly-skilled offensive defenceman whose positioning and hockey IQ are already very well developed,” said Thunder Cats head coach Jeff Dubois. “His goal is to play in the BCHL and we’re very pleased that he’s chosen Creston as the place to develop both on and off the ice this coming season.”
At College de l’Assomption, Gagnon played for former BCHL goaltender and current Alberni Valley Bulldogs scout Joel Quirion. That connection led to the 17-year old travelling west for a Bulldogs camp in Port Alberni, where he was identified by Thunder Cats coaches.
Gagnon subsequently visited Creston and participated in the Thunder Cats’ spring camp in Calgary, Alta., where he was a top performer.
“I’m happy to start a great experience and begin my junior hockey career with a great organization,” said Gagnon, who describes himself a smart two-way blue-liner with a good first pass.
“This year, I’m looking forward to helping the Thunder Cats have a winning season. I think we have a team that can go far in playoffs, and I want to work hard and be ready to make the step to Junior A next season.”
Gagnon will join his new teammates for the Thunder Cats’ main camp beginning Aug. 21 at the John Bucyk Arena.
—CRESTON VALLEY THUNDER CATS
