Sit-down with student-athlete Jules Melanson

BOUCHERVILLE, Tuesday, March 21, 2006 (QMJHL) – The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League’s official web site – www.lhjmq.qc.ca – will offer you every Tuesday until the Golden Puck Awards Gala, a feature on one of the five finalists for the Marcel-Robert Trophy, handed out each spring to the scholastic player of the year.

This week, Jules Melanson of the Drummondville Voltigeurs.

<i> What is the main focus of your studies?</i>

"I’ve been studying part time at <i>Université du Québec à Trois-Rivière</i> in medical biology. Next September, I’d like to continue my studies in physiotherapy."

<i>Can you describe the history of your academic path before you joined the QMJHL?</i>

"Before joining the major junior ranks, I finished high school in New Brunswick while playing at the Midget AAA level in Moncton."

<i>How does the hockey club support your academic endeavours?</i>

"In years past, the team really supported us, but they’ve gone the extra mile this year, especially since Alexandre Cusson, our academic consultant, was brought into the organization. Personally, he helped me go through the process of signing-up for University. He wrote a letter of reference, even while he was traveling in Argentina!"

<i>What subject do you excel the most in?</i>

"My strength is definitely in Math."

<i>Your major junior career is coming to an end. What are your subsequent career goals?</i>

"Ideally, I’d like to play hockey at the University level while I study in physiotherapy. I’d also like to take some courses in osteopathy."

<i> The winner of the Marcel-Robert Trophy will be announced at the Golden Puck Awards Gala on April 5. Along with the Trophy, the winner will receive a $500 purse as well as the <i> Guy Lafleur</i> student-athlete bursary worth $6,000</i>.