The Bonnyville Jr. A Pontiacs have another player in the spotlight for his talent and dedication to the sport.
The Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL) announced that Pontiac centreman Trey Thomas was the player of the week for Nov. 26 to Dec. 1.
“It was an honour to be recognized by the league, and for my hard work to be paying off,” Thomas said.
Head coach Rick Swan said he was very proud of Thomas when he heard the news.
“He’s been... consistently improving his game each and every day, and he loves the game. He comes to the rink with a smile, ready to work everyday, and it’s fantastic for him to get rewarded with that type of accolade,” Swan expressed.
Thomas was chosen after he collected four goals and four assists during the Pontiacs’ three consecutive wins Nov. 19 to 25, which put them back on top of the north division.
“Our team played really well in those three games, and I think it really came down to team success. My line played well, and I think that helped us get all those points. It just helped the team win,” Thomas explained.
While Thomas is new to the Pontiacs this year, he had prior experience playing with a few of his teammates.
In their minor hockey years, Thomas and Daine Dubois played together.
“I was pretty sure I was going to play with Daine, so it was nice that I already was familiar with my line mate,” noted Thomas.
Swan said, “When he came into Bonnyville, he had a lot of familiar faces that allowed his transition to really go smoother than a player who doesn’t know anybody. His transition, both on and off the ice and in the dressing room, has really just been terrific.”
Thomas was acquired through a trade with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks in early October, and Swan said Thomas has taken full advantage of being a Pontiac.
“Sometimes, a change of scenery, new environment, or opportunity, gives players a sense of energy, enthusiasm and excitement. Certainly, that was Trey. He’s taking full advantage of a different opportunity he has this year with us. We’re allowing him to play using his abilities and skill strengths, we’re not trying to put him into any type of role. We’re allowing Trey to do what he does best, which is to skate, play with pace, and showcase the exposure he’s looking for to get onto the NCAA radar,” added Swan.
Thomas doesn’t plan to let the title affect his game for the rest of the season, and wants the team to continue building on their success.
“I hope that we obviously stay first in the north, and we end up winning playoffs and the league. That’s the end goal for everyone on the team,” he said.
