Looking to bolster their lineup, the Express add 2 new players that will bring a wealth of Jr”A” experience with them. As the team moves forward and continues to progress every game, management feels they are adding two more key pieces to the puzzle. These two new players add years of experience to the young Express lineup and will help guide the youngsters on and off the ice.
Some fans may remember Kevin Labelle from 2 years ago when he played Jr.”A” here in Espanola as a young 16 year old goaltender and wound up taking over the net in the playoffs loosing out to the league champions The Kirkland Lake Goldminers. Kevin’s heroics in the playoffs left him with a celebrity status here in Espanola and fans are ecstatic to hear of his return to the net. Kevin has ties to Espanola as family live here and this next step in his journey makes sense for his career to return to a home town atmosphere. The 6’5″ 2 00lbs Labelle doesnt leave much of the net to shoot at with his big frame and his speed and agility allows him to manouver quickly around the net as he was a big part of the Nickel Barons sudden sucess last year. “Since Kevin played for us 2 years ago, we know who Kevin is, we know Kevin’s capabilities and we know Kevin will give us an opportunity to win every night he plays with his work ethic and determination”, stated GM Chad Clarke.
Also new to the Express line up is rugged, hard working right winger Keenan Kennedy. Keenan was picked up in a trade from the Maritime Jr”A” Hockey League via the St Stephen Aces in a trade. As a 20 year old who played the last 3 seasons on the east coast playing in the Maritime Junior A Hockey League Keenan has a lot to offer his younger team mates. Originally from Barrie and a product of the Barrie Colts Midget AAA program Keenan looks to settle in to Espanola and help his new club to victory. Keenan is a speedy two way forward who helps add depth to the Express line up and will definately help the Express compete level. “Keenan is a gritty, fast forward who has an incredible work ethic and a whatever it takes attitude and its that kind of lunchbox attitude that will help us win those tight games”, expressed GM Chad Clarke.
