Lemieux Hopes To Contribute Immediately For Chatham
Darby Lemieux, seen here during the Athletes Fuel Cup, is the newest member of the Chatham Maroons – Photo by Kelsey Vermeersch/ CKSN.ca
The fact the 16-year-old grabbed one of two coveted underage cards however, doesn’t mean he’s satisfied with just being on the team, Lemieux wants to contribute immediately.
“The coaches this year are really looking for me to being a power forward this season,” said the Tilbury product. “Drive the net, big presence out front of the net, playing the body, creating chances and putting pucks in the back of the net. Also having the ability to kill penalties and help out on the defensive side, just the all around 200-foot player is what they would like to see out of me this season.”
That’s what Lemieux, who attends Ecole Secondaire de Pain Court, did last season for the Chatham-Kent Cyclones Minor Midget ‘AAA’ team. He is excited to be playing on familiar ice, and has been working hard this offseason to prepare himself for the challenge and opportunity of Junior hockey.
“It feels great to be playing Junior B and once again back in the old barn. Very excited to be playing in Chatham – I really wasn’t sure where I’d be for the upcoming season,” says Lemieux.
“I’m looking forward to playing with such a great group of guys and being surrounded by amazing and loyal fans. It’s going to be a challenge playing against older guys this year but I’ve prepared myself with the Athletes Fuel Training program. I can’t wait to get things started with such a great organization.”
After going undrafted in the OHL draft last season, despite having a strong showing of 15 goals and 25 points in Minor Midget ‘AAA’, Lemieux is also out to prove himself, and continue to work toward his hockey goals.
“My goals for this season are to always put forth my best effort and bring a positive attitude with my teammates, coaching staff and my fans. I’d like to put up a lot of points this season and better myself on and off the ice. My future goals are to go as far as I can with hockey – if not pro, then some school options achieving it all through hard work and always wanting to improve.”
The Chatham Maroons open their 2018-2019 season September 16 against the Strathroy Rockets.