Nelson Leafs goalie Frederick Larochelle is returning to Kelowna next season to play for the Okanagan Lakers in the BC Intercollegiate Hockey League.
In 23 games this season with the Leafs, Larochelle helped the team qualify for the KIJHL Teck Cup championships. Larochelle began his KIJHL career with the Kelowna Chiefs.
For his career, the 19-year-old had a .912 save percentage and a 2.86 goals against average. In the playoffs, the Brossard, Quebec native recorded a .875 save percentage and a 3.97 average.
“I am extremely grateful for the on- and off-ice support the Leafs organization gave me,” said Larochelle. “For the season to come, it’ll be a great opportunity for me to attend university while playing a great level of hockey. I’m extremely excited.”
Leafs head coach-GM Briar McNaney said Larochelle was a tremendous player for them.
“This young man was dedicated enough to work, go to school, and play hockey at a high level at the same time last year,” said McNaney.
“It takes a special person to have the drive to do that, and we wish that more young men can have that similar drive because it doesn’t come often.”