A lot has been made of the fantastic playoff run by the Cariboo Cougars. The dynamic run fell a game short as they lost in the 3rd and deciding game of the Pacific Region Championship series and the right to move onto the Telus Cup to the Calgary Buffaloes.
One of the many leaders on that Cariboo squad was none other than the Prince George Cougars 1’st round pick from 2007, Brett Connolly. He was selected 10th overall.
Connolly is offensively gifted, and that is great news for a Cougars club who ranked 19th in goals for this past season in the WHL. Connolly is one of those rare players who have finish, but also the ability to make those around him better. Perfect evidence requires a look no further than his statistics from this past season. In 38 games with the Cariboo Cougars, Connolly notched 16 goals and 16 assists. He chipped in with 5 points in 6 playoff games as well (4g, 1a) “I’m an offensive guy,” said Connolly. “ I like to score, but I also like to dish the puck around too.”
The season had a particularly disappointing end for Connolly who had to sit out the deciding game of the Calgary series due to a questionable suspension. As disappointing as it was at the time, Connolly couldn’t have asked for a better way to finish his Midget season. “We got hot at the right time and everybody bought in.”
The experience has left Connolly excited for what the 2008-2009 season will bring. When asked if playing for his hometown Western Hockey League team will add a little pressure, Connolly agreed but was quick to point out that it becomes a greater challenge and that is something that he is very much looking forward to.
From the perspective of the Cougars, General Manager Dallas Thompson isn’t too worried about Connolly’s transition from midget to major junior. “Brett had a real good developing year and has progressed in many areas that will make his adjustment to the WHL very easy.”
All parties involved hope the adjustment on the ice will be a smooth one next season. If that is going to be the case Connolly knows that the hard work must start now. “I’ve already begun training, I can’t wait to get started.”
Fans of the Prince George Cougars can’t wait for Connolly to get started either
