Q&A with Jonathan Lessard

BOUCHERVILLE, Tuesday, December 14th, 2010 – Jonathan Lessard wasn’t drafted during his year of NHL eligibility. Even though he was disappointed not to hear his name called by a NHL team, Jonathan continues to work hard to be able to achieve his dream one day. Of course, it becomes a little bit easier to believe in yourself when the advice comes from Steve Yzerman himself!

As a hockey player and an individual, what does the QMJHL do to improve your on-ice and off-ice development?

“For the sports side, I think that playing against the best players from Quebec and the Maritimes makes me stronger and better. On the personal side, I’m very proud to be able to play in the top league. It’s a real honour.“

Unfortunately, you weren’t drafted by a NHL team. How disappointed were you when it didn’t happen?

“I was very disappointed, but I think it only made me stronger and better, because the year after, I wanted to prove to everyone that I deserved to be there and be one of the best.“

You were invited to Tampa Bay’s training camp last summer. How did it go for you? What advice did the top guns such as Vincent Lecavalier, Steven Stamkos and Steve Yzerman give you?

“I didn’t have the chance to play with those players, but my experience was great. I did have the chance to meet Steve Yzerman and he gave me some advice. I try to put that advice to good work.“

This year, you’re a Titan veteran. How do you deal with that? Do you give advice to younger players? How do act with them?

“Sure, as a veteran, I have a bigger role to play for my team, and I try to make the younger players benefit from my experience, because I was once one of them and someone took care of me at the time.“

If you hadn’t played hockey, what other passion would you be pursuing?

“I once played soccer when I was younger, but I needed to choose between soccer and hockey. I think that I would have continued soccer and that I would be having success playing it.“

Is there something people don’t know about you that you would like to share?

“I’m a really good cook!“