Press Release
Monday, October 03, 2022
Hockey: Aigles Bleus to host Panthers on Wednesday
The 2022-2023 Atlantic University Sport men's hockey season begins Wednesday as the Université de Moncton's Aigles Bleus host the University of Prince Edward Island Panthers at the J.-Louis-Lévesque Arena at 7 p.m. on the Moncton campus.
The game was originally scheduled in Charlottetown, but the lack of ice since Hurricane Fiona forced the Panthers to travel this week instead of playing at home.
It is therefore a faster start to the season than expected in Moncton following two Aigles Bleus victories in their last exhibition games last weekend.
“We had a great weekend, and we will continue in this wave,” said new head coach Derek Cormier in anticipation of the opening game. “We know their team is physical and fast and we will be ready. I'm very excited about my first official game behind the bench and it will be different from the pre-season games. The Aigles Bleus are a hard-working team that will do the right things. It's important for us to manage our offence, speed, and the transition. I'm focusing on our veterans like Vincent Deslaurieurs and others who are good leaders on and off the ice. With (Étienne) Montpetit in front of the net, he's an important piece. Rookies have an important adjustment to make, but it's another level for them and they need to adapt.''
According to Captain Vincent Deslauriers, “Fans will see a team with a more offensive and go-getter style because of coach Derek Cormier. We also have a very good defensive offensive. We will score more goals than last year and concede fewer. We have a team with character as demonstrated on Saturday while we did not give up even if we were behind by 2 goals. The team has a good mix of veterans and rookies, that all have a work ethic that will mark our roster. We are improving and we will be beautiful to watch.”
Deslauriers is in his 4th season as team captain, a role he plays adroitly. He is completing his 2nd year of Master of Business Administration. All players will be introduced at a ceremony prior to the game. Fans with season tickets will be able to use the November 30 ticket for access to Wednesday's game.
Moncton will host the University of New Brunswick Reds on Saturday at 7 p.m. as well.
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