BONNYVILLE - The Bonnyville Pontiacs are celebrating another achievement as rookie forward Mathieu Lajoie has committed to Arizona State University (ASU).
"I am beyond excited for this opportunity. My goal is to continue working hard every day, and help the Pontiacs have a successful season,” said Lajoie
Pontiacs General Manager Chad Nelson said the Pontiacs are extremely proud and excited for Lajoie and his family, and Lajoie has set a good example for other players to always seek opportunities.
Lajoie said he is looking forward to getting a good education at ASU, while playing competitive college hockey that will help him develop towards his goal of playing hockey professionally.
"ASU has a great hockey program and is in one of the most competitive conferences in the NCAA. The campus and facilities are unbelievable, and the coaching staff and team personnel are excellent and professional," said Lajoie.
Pontiacs head coach Ayrton Nikkel congratulated Lajoie on taking the next step in his career.
"He is a hard-working player with exceptional talent and an IQ for the game. His attention to detail on and off the ice will continue to help him grow into an impactful colligate hockey player," said Nikkel.
Lajoie has high regard for the Pontiacs organization and is grateful for the guidance and opportunities they provided. Lajoie thanked all the coaches who have helped him along the way.
“Coach Ayrton and Chad Nelson have been very supportive from the day I got here in Bonnyville. My billet family is amazing and are people I can lean on and trust,” said Lajoie.
Lajoie is the son of former Bonnyville Pontiac and local Joel Lajoie.
“The biggest thanks go to my family who have always been supportive of my goals and dreams."
In Lajoie’s first seven games with the Pontiacs this season he has produced two goals and three assists for five points.
Lajoie will be playing his next home game on Oct. 16 against the Fort McMurray Oil Barons at 7 p.m. at the RJ Lalonde Arena.
