The Olympiques want to show what they’re made of
GATINEAU – The Olympiques are gearing up for two home games this weekend, as the Drummondville Voltigeurs (Friday) and Rimouski Oceanic (Saturday) visit the Outaouais region.
Friday night’s game is a rematch of Alexis Loiseau’s team’s 4-1 defeat at Centre Marcel Dionne last Sunday, and the players see it as a chance to get back on track.
“They’re a very hard-working, aggressive team. It’s a chance for us to face them again and show what we can do,” explains Justin Boisselle. – Justin Boisselle explains.
” It will allow us to move on. It’s the perfect opportunity for us to get back on track and show our true colors” – adds Emeric Gaudet.
It’s an ideal opportunity for the Gatineau-based troupe, who didn’t get the results they’d hoped for on the opening weekend of the QMJHL.In Friday’s curtain-raiser, the Olympiques fell to the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies in front of more than 4,500 wildly enthusiastic spectators.
The results, however, are nothing to be alarmed about, according to the team’s veterans.
“It’s a new week. The games in our league come fast, so there’s no time to complain. We’ve had some good training and video sessions this week. The energy is positive, so it’s up to us to be ready when the puck drops on Friday night at home.” – points out Emeric Gaudet.
“It was an emotional weekend. I think we did some good things and some not-so-good things. The important thing is to focus on the positive. There are still 62 games to go, so we’re looking forward to Friday’s game with a positive approach.” – Justin Boisselle
Pelletier and Golicic back
Two familiar faces were back in training this week. Zach Pelletier, who was at the New Jersey Devils camp, and Jan Golicic, with the Tampa Bay Lightning, were back with their teammates this week.
Both 18-year-old players say they’re happy to be back in Gatineau, after some unforgettable moments with the pros.
” I was looking forward to coming back to Gatineau and playing in front of our fans. I gained a lot of experience in New Jersey, something I want to bring with me here to Gatineau. I didn’t think I’d stay this long with the pros, but it’s been a really nice stay that will be beneficial for me.” – explains goaltender Zach Pelletier.”
I’m really happy to be back. I can’t wait for tomorrow night. To see my teammates and the fans again. I learned so much in Tampa Bay, and I’m ready to have a great year with the Olympiques.” Comments defenseman Jan Golicic
The weekend kicks off on Friday evening at 7 p.m., with the Drummondville Voltigeurs as visitors. On Saturday, the hosts of the 2025 Memorial Cup will be at the Slush Puppie Centre from 4pm.
