Quick hits with Shawinigan forward Francis Paré

BOUCHERVILLE, Saturday, January 20, 2007 – This week, the official website of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League presents an interview with Shawinigan Cataractes forward Francis Paré.

<i>You’ve been in the League for a few years, what aspect of your game has shown the most improvement?</i>

"I’d say it’s my vision on the ice. I have a much better peripheral vision out there than when I was playing in Midget AAA. Actually, I used to be known as a scorer, having netted 53 goals one year, but now I’m more of a passer."

<i>The team enjoyed a great start to the season and then hit the skids. What are the team's goals heading into the second half of the season?</i>

"We want to prepare for the playoffs. A lot of things can happen in the second season."

<i>What is your career outlook?</i>

"Obviously, I’d like to make it to the National Hockey League or play professionally. I just take it one season at a time. I’ll look at my options at the end of the season and go from there."

<i>Which team is your greatest rival?</i>

"The games against Drummondville are always very intense and physical. Both teams play very close to each other geographically, and we’re always battling for position in the standings. Since I’ve been here (3 years), the games have always been hard-fought."