Adding different elements to a team can be a fine line – you don’t want to disrupt what you’ve built, but at the same time, you need to improve.
The Nipissing Lakers men’s hockey team, led by head coach Mike McParland have done a tremendous job of doing just that.
The program has added some character guys, equipped with skill, leadership qualities and the right mindset heading into the 2016-17 OUA/CIS season.
The latest signing is Deverick Ottereyes, a big, strong forward from Val-d’Or, Quebec who wrapped up a three-year QMJHL career in 2013-14 before playing in the QJAAAHL, a Tier-2 league in Quebec.
Ottereyes said he’s looking forward to the opportunity to play at a high level again, contributing to the team as well as getting an education.
“I am very excited to be a part of the Lakers family. It's a great feeling to continue playing the sport I love and as well getting a university education at the same time,” he said. “Especially coming from a small town in James Bay, I think it could have a positive influence on the youth.”
This past season, the 6-foot-1, 190-pound forward played with the Temiscaming Titans of the GMHL, putting up 21 points in eight games.
Prior to that, in the QJAAAHL, he piled up 33 goals and 41 points in 41 games with the Kahnawake Condors.
Ottereyes also spent three full seasons in the QMJHL, playing 152 games and picking up 33 points with the PEI Rocket, Charlottetown Islanders and Gatineau Olympiques.
Ottereyes feels he can play a complete game and contribute at both ends of the ice, something he’s ready to prove in both training camp and throughout the season.
“I am a complete two-way forward, not afraid to go in the dirty areas and can help out on both sides of the ice. My two main strengths are my speed and physicality,” he explained, noting he believes the team has a good core to find some success this season. “Being in a good position for playoffs and having a chance to win the championship is my ideal expectations, but I'm sure the league is strong so we will try our best. I have great expectations for myself because I want to be reliable and a good teammate.”
McParland, who has been busy this off-season, believes Ottereyes can bring key aspects to the lineup.
“Deverick adds some size, speed and grit for the Lakers this upcoming season. A veteran of three QMJHL seasons, we are looking forward to adding Deverick to our lineup,” McParland said. "Deverick brings some intangibles that we will be very happy to add to our team."
Looking towards the business program, Ottereyes who played his midget hockey with the Amos Forestiers, appreciates the opportunity and said he’s grateful for the chance to play in the CIS.
He also admitted he hasn’t arrived here on his own, his support system has been great throughout his hockey career.
“I want to say thank you to the Lakers for giving me the chance to continue playing hockey and pursuing my academic goals. Thank you to everyone that has supported me and I can't wait to start the season,” he said.
Ottereyes will join his teammates in late August as training camp opens for the 2016-17 season.
Lakers Golf
The annual Charity Golf Tournament in support of Lakers Men’s Hockey, July 21 at Osprey Links Golf Course with a shotgun start at 1:30 p.m.
