Quebec’s 20-Year-Old Leaders
The recent trade period was particularly hectic for the Quebec Remparts. General Director, Philippe Boucher had as his mission the restocking of his draft picks, and he didn’t hesitate to overhaul his team to do it. The result? Two of his three 20-year-olds, Matt Murphy, and Nikolas Brouillard now find themselves plying their talents elsewhere. Only forward Bronson Beaton wasn’t handed a ticket out of town. There are now two new 20-year-olds who have joined the club; German center Alexandre Sills and d-man Anthony Gingras, who started his career with the Remparts at 16 before going on to play for Acadie-Bathurst, Chicoutimi and Victoriaville all before ending up back where he started.
Alexandre Sills
Sills came from Rouyn-Noranda but was such a big part of that team, it wasn’t easy to cut the proverbial cord. ‘Yeah, it was a shock, because we had a shot at going far. It’s a few weeks later now and I’ve gotten over whatever sadness I had, and the only thing I’m thinking about in Quebec is finishing off my career in style. I’m going to lead by example and try to give responsible leadership to the young players.’
When Sills talks about wanting to be a source of inspiration, he isn’t only talking about what does in a game. ‘If veterans don’t get involved in the practices, it’s easy for the younger players to pick up bad habits. When I started in the league, it was the veterans that I was watching, to see how I could become an impact player. Also, its hard on the rookies that don’t get to play a lot. It’s important to always encourage them and keep their morale up.’
Sills’ new Head Coach, Philippe Boucher is more than happy with his acquisition. ‘I’ve only worked with him for a few weeks, but I can really understand why the Huskies were loathe to part with him. He’s a mature and thoughtful young man. His contribution on the ice is very important because he’s a big lad who wins his face offs and who you can put up against your adversaries’ best players. We’re happy to have this type of player influencing the younger guys.’
Bronson Beaton
As for Bronson, he has been with the team since the start of the season and his offensive contribution has been significant. At the moment of writing, his tally of 22 goals and 27 assists in 49 games is of more than just little interest. The Moncton Wildcats weren’t that greedy last summer when they traded Bronson for a 10th round pick, allowing him to continue his career in Quebec.
‘Yes, it’s important to exercise a certain leadership; it’s what the younger players expect, but don’t forget that having fun goes along with that. Everyone has to take advantage of this experience. We have a really great group of guys in that locker room and the rookies have earned their place there quickly. Personally, I’m a talker. I’m in my 5th season in the league and I don’t hesitate to help a young player.’
His coach, Philippe Boucher tells the story: ‘Bronson has been with us since the start of the campaign, and his work has been consistent from one week to the next. He sets an example in every way and he’s great leader on our team.’
Anthony Gingras
Anthony Gingras’ story is a particular one. He started off his Junior career with the Remparts and after stints with Acadie-Bathurst, Chicoutimi and Victoriaville, it is again with the Remparts that he will finish it. He too understands the importance of engaging the younger players. ‘It’s part of our role as 20-year-olds, to set them on the right path. We have responsibilities in that locker room. Like Bronson, I’m not shy with my advice if a young guy comes to talk to me. Sometimes a simple pat on the back is enough to show you’re there for him. I’ve played more than 200 games in the Q, with hundreds of players and a good dozen coaches. When I was in Quebec at 16, I learned to play form watching guys like Tam, Bernard and the like. They taught me how to behave, on and off the ice, and how to be a leader. I was playing far away from my family in Bathurst, so I know a little something about having to learn to adjust. All that change made me a better player and a more accomplished human being. So I can now help the young players in different ways.’
For Philippe Boucher, there was never any surprise with Anthony. ‘I’ve known him for a long time, because he comes from my neck of the woods. He’s a serious guy with a good work ethic. He’s important to us. When we let go of 20-year-olds to stock up on draft picks, we had to replace them with responsible guys, and that’s what we’ve been able to do.’
