Varsity Boys Hockey

Ryan Hopkins Selected in QMJHL Draft

For the second year in a row, the Stanstead College varsity boys hockey team had a player selected early in the QMJHL draft, as Ryan Hopkins (Lunenburg, Nova Scotia) was selected 23rd overall (3rd pick in the second round) by the Moncton Wildcats, coincidentally the same spot in which he was ranked by central scouting.

The draft, which was set to be hosted locally by the Sherbrooke Phoenix, was altered to be conducted online due to the COVID-19 pandemic and took place this past Friday and Saturday.

When Ryan arrived on campus last September for his first year, it was clear that despite being the youngest player on the team he would be an important part of the team’s success, and he did not disappoint and improved as the season went on. As a 10th grade defenceman, Ryan suited up for all 58 games this season, posting 8 goals and 23 assists for 31 points. Outside the stat line, Ryan carried himself like a veteran player on the team, logging big minutes and playing all key situations.

“As a two-way defenceman, Ryan has an ability to both slow the game down and never look like he is being forced to rush to make a decision when playing with the puck, while at the same time being invaluable as a shutdown player without the puck,” said Head Coach Matt Thompson. “All in all, Ryan is a model modern-day defenceman who can take over the game at both ends of the rink. Simply put, you feel good when he is on the ice.”

Aside from hockey, Ryan has challenged himself to not only be better on the rink, but has also worked hard inside the classroom to improve overall as a student-athlete. Ryan is a positive force around campus and had planned to play golf in the spring before school shifted to distance learning.

“We are very proud not only of Ryan the hockey player but also Ryan the person,” said Mr. Thompson. “Being drafted as high as this is a significant achievement for a young hockey player, but as importantly Ryan is developing into a fine young man, which will take him far in life. I am excited to see Ryan continue to further his career and take advantage of what lies ahead."

Ryan is expected to return to Stanstead this fall for Grade 11.

Aside from Ryan, three former members of the Stanstead College community also saw their names called during this past weekend’s draft. Cameron Maclean (3rd round Bathurst), Alexis Daniel (11th round Moncton) and Phil Richard (11th round Shawinigan). Alexis and Phil were both members of the Spartan U16 team last year as Grade 10 students and were drafted in their second year of eligibility. Alexis Daniel was the captain of the 2018-2019 U16 team and a three-year Spartan.

Congratulations to all four of these young men.
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