Community Moment | Perron creating many smiles in Rouyn-Noranda
Every day, thousands of young Quebecers jump on the outdoor rinks to play friendly pick-up games with their friends.
For newcomers, this ritual that’s so well rooted within our culture, represents an exceptional opportunity to discover a new culture.
That’s why Mathis Perron and some Rouyn-Noranda Huskies teammates recently decided to invite a group of youngsters from different countries to join them for a game they will remember for a long time.
About 20 students from Rouyn-Noranda’s Iberville School took part in this activity. They all originated from countries such as Cuba, Tunisia, Syria and even Ukraine.
“At first, they were a little confused. They weren’t too sure who we were. But there were a few kids who were already Huskies fans. They were really happy to see us,” says Perron.
“There was one kid who didn’t speak English or French. But he knew what the Huskies were all about. I think everyone had a great time.”
Mathis Perron even gave away his stick to this youngster at the end of the game.
“He gave me a big hug. I think I made his day,” says the forward with a laugh. “I don’t think they do activities like that very often. They seemed pretty impressed with how good we were on skates.”
The Huskies players who took part in the activity heard all kinds of horror stories about what the kids had gone through before coming to Canada. Close to a dozen of the children were adopted from Ukrainian families. They decided to settle here to escape the war.
“The teachers told us that most of the youngsters there were street kids. I was shocked to hear that, and it reminded me how lucky I was to have both my parents, because plenty of those kids didn’t have their parents anymore,” recalls the 18-year-old from Sherbrooke.
“I asked them if they were happy to be here and they would tell me that they were really enjoying it here… except for the cold!”, he adds with a laugh.
Growing up, Mathis Perron was a big fan of the Phoenix, and especially of Daniel Audette. He remembers skating with the team and even getting a few autographs.
“I remember being in the same shoes as the children we visit not so long ago myself. It makes me realize how lucky I am to be able to play at this level, and be a role model for the younger generations,” admits the forward.
Whatever the activity, Perron intends to continue giving back to his adopted community until the end of his major junior career.
“When we organize activities like this, I always like to participate. Because I know that these kids haven’t had the chance to be as comfortable in their countries like we are here. It’s something that I take to heart,” he says.
This community involvement corresponds to the values that Perron inherited from his family and that are shared within the Huskies organization.
“I realize how lucky I am to be able to play my favorite sport and not have to worry about so many other things right now.”
In addition to his outdoor hockey game with the kids, the left winger has also participated in elementary school and senior home visits this season.
“Just to see the smiles on people’s faces when we go see them, it’s definitely worth it!”
