Where Are They Now?

 

JP Grineau

Name: JP Grineau

 

#2

 

As my last year as a flyer concluded I took an offer from Adrian College to play hockey and attend school. I am currently 22 years old living in Adrian Michigan being a student athlete. I play along side of 3 former flyers in Adrian, Mike Barrett, Austyn Roudebush, and Kyle Perkowski. I am working towards a degree in Exercise science to one day attend Physiotherapist school.

 

Years Played as a Flyer:

 

2012-2016

 

Best GOJHL Player You Played Against: 

The best player I played against in the GOJHL was probably Noah Schwartz from the London Nationals. He was a guy who made you hold your breath every time he was on the ice.

 

Best Player You Played With: 

 

There was a lot of players that I played with that were very good, but the one person that I have had the pleasure to play with and against for many years before Leamington was Mitchell Amante. Mitchy had the ability to control an entire game with his great vision and scoring ability.

 

Who Was the Funniest:

 

Scott Emerson was a blast in the room my last year with the Flyers. Scott made every one in the room crack up with his stories.

 

Who Was the Hardest Hitter:

 

Brett Langlois was a very hard hitting defenceman. If you didn’t have your head up around Brett, he made you pay.

 

Who Was the Best Skater: 

 

Jake McGhee was a powerful skater even with one leg substantially shorter than the other, he still beat guys wide to dump the puck in.

 

Who Had the Hardest Shot:

 

I would have to say David Dalby had the hardest shot I have seen in the GOJHL. His one-timer was a killer on the PP

 

Who Did Opponents Hate to Play Against the Most:

 

Mitchell Amante being one of the most skilled guys still got into people’s heads during games and made it known throughout the league that he would be hated by any team that would be playing him that night. He was fearless, and good at getting under the opponents skin.

 

What Was the Most Memorable Goal You Scored:

 

The most memorable goal I scored as a flyer was not a highlight real goal. It was putting in an empty net goal to score my first and only hat-trick as a Flyer.

 

Favourite Flyers’ Memory:

Having been on 4 cruises with the flyers there is a lot of great memories there but I would have to say it is winning back to back Western Conference Championships, and being able to hoist the trophy against both rival teams, Chatham, and LaSalle.

 

Are You Still Involved in Hockey (if so how):

I am currently playing for the Adrian College Bulldogs working our way to a National Championship.

 

In Your Opinion What Does It Mean To Be a Leamington Flyer:

To me, being a Leamington Flyer means to be apart of something greater than yourself. For me to play for your hometown junior team was an honor and an amazing experience. The biggest lesson I learned from Tony Piroski was how to look beyond your own individual goals and realize the value of winning as a team. “To be a champion is to pay a greater price than your opponent.”. This was Coach Piroski’s quote for the team and he showed us how to have a winning mindset not only on the ice but off of it as well. Being a Flyer was the best 4 years of my life. There is nothing like junior hockey.

#2 JP Grineau

 

 

Jared Dennis

Name: Jared Dennis

Number: 15

Write a Paragraph About Your Current Life: (Age, Current Hometown, Are You Married/Engaged, Do You Have Any Children? Current School/Occupation, Any other significant details):

After my last year playing junior B hockey, I decided to turn my focus towards school. I am currently 23 years old and attending the University of Windsor for Human Kinetics with hopes of becoming a medical doctor. This past year I was also involved with the Windsor Spitfires organization for a seasons long internship through the University of Windsor as the Spitfires Intern Athletic Therapist. This internship involved working along side the Spitfires’ Athletic Therapist Joey Garland to enhance the strength and conditioning of the players. This was a great opportunity for me to further my career, especially finishing my time with Spitfires by winning the Memorial Cup.

Years Played as a Flyer: 

2010-2013

Best GOJHL Player You Played Against:

The Best player I played against in the GOJHL is Kyle Brothers

Best Player You Played With:

The best player I played with in the GOJHL was also Kyle Brothers. I remember when Kyle Brothers went on a 6 game hat-trick streak and finished the season with 57 goals and 122 points

Of Your Former Flyers’ Teammates (Not including yourself)….

The best Flyer player I played with was Myles Doan. I remember when he came from playing with the University of Windsor and he was just a great all around player.

Who Was the Funniest:

I have played with a lot of funny hockey players throughout my years as a Flyer, but the one that sticks out the most was Tyler Quigley. The things he did and the stories he told always made everyone around him laugh.

Who Was the Hardest Hitter:

Brett Langlois definitely knew how to throw the most punishing open ice hits.

Who Was the Best Skater:

The best skater I played with was Myles Doan

Who Had the Hardest Shot:

Kyle Shaw had the hardest snap shot in the league

Who Did Opponents Hate to Play Against the Most:

Opponent’s hated playing against Mitch Amante because he always knew how to get under their skin

What Was the Most Memorable Goal You Scored:

The most Memorable goal I scored as a Flyer was the Teddy Bear Toss Goal.

Favourite Flyers’ Memory:

My favourite Flyers memory was definitely going on the cruises. They were always a highlight of the year and I will have stories to tell from them for the rest of my life.

Are You Still Involved in Hockey (if so how):

I am still involved in hockey whether it’s playing in the intramural leagues in the winter, working with the Windsor Spitfire, or playing in with all the junior and pro players in the summer leagues.

In Your Opinion What Does It Mean To Be a Leamington Flyer:

Being a Leamington Flyer helped me not only learn to become a better hockey player but also to become a better more rounded individual. Whether it was learning on the ice or through coaches, teammates, and experiences, I always was continually to develop as a person.

 

 

Nick Nicodemo

Name: Nick Nicodemo

 

Number: 8

 

I’m 26 years old now, living in my hometown of Windsor. I am currently working and still in school. For three weeks out of the month I am home and working at the Windsor Assembly Plant for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles while also studying. I spend the remaining week in Hamilton, Ontario attending classes at the Canadian Academy of Osteopathy where I am earning my masters diploma and training to become an Osteopathic practitioner.

 

Years Played as a Flyer: 2010-2012

 

Best GOJHL Player You Played Against:

I would have to say DJ Turner. His point totals and what he was able to accomplish in Tecumseh and LaSalle speak to the kind of impact player he was. He was highly skilled and he had a very high hockey IQ. he wasn’t an overly big or physical guy but the puck seemed to follow him around and he always seemed to do something useful with it.

 

Best Player You Played With:

Cheyne Matheson. He was the type of player that could play in all situations and be effective. what baseball people call a 5 tool player is what Cheyne was to hockey. He was extremely well rounded, possessing all the skilled attributes like speed, puck handling, shooting, passing and skating as well as intangible assets like hard work and leadership.

 

Of Your Former Flyers’ Teammates (Not including yourself)….

 

Who Was the Funniest:

My good buddy Tyler Quigley. Everyone loved Quigs for a reason, he was a great competitor but he was also a guy who knew how to keep it light and have fun. Guys on the other team would try and chirp him or one of our teammates and he would say something back and they would end up smirking. These kinds of teammates are so important in a locker room and on the ice because in the heat of battle sometimes you need that guy to allow everyone to chill out and relax and Quigs was great for that.

 

Who Was the Hardest Hitter:

Brett Langlois. Of all the teams I’ve been on and years I’ve played I don’t think there’s been anyone who could line up an open ice hit quite like Langer. He’s one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met but when it came to delivering bone jarring hits Brett was as solid as they come. He was never scared to answer the bell or defend a teammate either which is something I really admired about him as a teammate. I’m sure he still has his impressive record with the gloves off memorized or documented somewhere.

 

Who Was the Best Skater:

Dakota Olvin. On the Olympic sized ice it was crucial to have guys that could skate, especially on the back end. Dakota had the ability to rush the puck and get back to play defense without an issue which is a real asset to have on a team. As someone who wasn’t the most fleet of foot I was definitely envious of how well he could skate, his speed as well as the power in his stride made it extremely hard for guys to stop him or knock him off the puck.

 

Who Had the Hardest Shot:

He would be so mad at me if I didnt mention him, Ron Soucie could really hammer a puck from the blue line. Dubbed the “Ron Bomb”, I believe Souce hit in the mid 90mph range at a skills competition we had at practice, just ask him!

 

Who Did Opponents Hate to Play Against the Most:

One type of player I dont believe we had was a true pest or agitator. I think that has something to do with the big ice we played on and rolling four lines that could all play, prioritizing skill and hard work above the ability to get under opponents’ skin. Eric Mayor was a guy who played on the edge, he could be nasty to play against. I think he knew his stick wasnt meant for scoring goals and that bought him a bit of extra space out there.

 

What Was the Most Memorable Goal You Scored:

Having not made it out of the first round in either year I played doesn’t really allow for those big moments to happen. Scoring against LaSalle in the playoffs is always fun, but I think the one I’ll remember scoring for a long time was the first goal on Teddy Bear toss night. Scoring to make it rain stuffed animals was pretty cool, those nights are special because it’s for a great cause and always a friendly competition in the locker room. When you don’t score a whole lot they’re always special!

 

Favourite Flyers’ Memory:

I always loved just spending time with the boys, I still miss it. When you’re playing you kind of take it for granted, but coming to the rink, being in the dressing room and playing hockey 4-5 times a week was an absolute blast. Everything from the practical jokes and stories in the room to working hard and battling on the ice together are the things I’ll always remember and cherish.

 

Are You Still Involved in Hockey (if so how):

I still play recreational hockey twice a week, and I look forward to it every time. I helped coach Sun County Atom Major AAA last season along with Tyler Quigley. It was a lot of fun, I remembered what it was like being that age and just playing, its funny how things come full circle. My love for the game hasn’t really subsided so I dont think I’ll ever be done with hockey, I still love to play and when the time is right I would welcome the idea to get back into coaching.

 

In Your Opinion What Does It Mean To Be a Leamington Flyer:

You see it even in pro sports all the time, where the team takes on the identity of its respective city. To me, Leamington is a hard-working blue collar town, where your success is earned and not simply given to you. Our owners were products of this mentality and work ethic so to me, I always tried to put in the effort that would make them, and the people of the town proud. Although our track record doesn’t really show it, we were a hard working team, and the support we were able to gain from the community was very special to me as a player. I was proud of the way we, the owners; coaching and training staff; and the players helped bring the Leamington Flyers out of the basement of the league and take this organization from laughing stock to a serious contender. So to me, being a Leamington Flyer meant you dont make excuses or feel entitled, instead you work hard, commit to your team and its success and leave it all out on the ice.

 

 

Cheyne Matheson

Name: Cheyne Matheson

 

Wheatley native Cheyne Matheson joined the Flyers prior to the 2009-2010 season after playing the previous year with the Wheatley Sharks. Cheyne would go on to play 3 seasons with the Flyers, being named an Assistant Captain in 2011-2012 and being named the team’s Most Valuable Player twice during his career. Cheyne would finish his career with 150 Games Played, 59 Goals, 66 Assists, 125 Points and 132 PIMs all in a Flyers uniform before graduating and playing college hockey in New England.

 

Current Life:

 

Currently, I am playing in my second season of semi-professional hockey for the Liege Bulldogs in the BENEleague (Belgium/Netherlands hockey league) and living here in Liege, Belgium. I am now 26 years old, and have been away from my hometown of Wheatley, Ontario for 6 years. After my 3 years playing for the Leamington Flyers from 2009-2012, I attended school at New England College where I graduated with a degree in Kinesiology while playing 4 seasons with the NEC Pilgrims (NCAA Div 3), captaining the team for 3 years and being recognized as an all-american athlete in my Junior year.

 

Years Played as a Flyer: 

2009-2012

 

Best GOJHL Player You Played Against: 

This is a tough one. There were many great players in the GOJHL but a couple that really stick out are Seth Griffith (St. Marys) and DJ Turner (LaSalle Vipers).

Seth Griffith put up 50 goals as a 16 year old and now plays in the NHL, it seemed like everything he touched went into the back of the net, his shot was unreal. And Turner was a small player who did it all. He would battle in the corners, played both ends of the rink and managed to put up league top numbers season by season.

 

Best Player You Played With: 

Another tough one..

I had the privilege to play with some amazing players.

In my first season as a Flyer I was able to learn from the older more experienced vets, Shawn Quigley and Trevor Crevatin who really let me realize my potential and helped me grow as an all around hockey player.

In the 2010-11 season myself, Kyle Bowman & Nick Nicodemo formed a line that would be used as a shut down line against top lines around the league. Not only were these guys two of my best friends already but playing with them was simple and we held each other accountable. We were very effective at not only the shut down role but scoring goals as well 🙂 Nick’s intensity, leadership and hard work pushed Kyle and I to play as hard as we could at all times. Kyle’s speed and determination was something that every good line needs and together we were a unit at both ends of the ice.

The next season (2011-12) I had the pleasure to play on a line with Alex Seguin and Tyler Quigley, (also two great friends of mine). Our chemistry was unbelievable and it made the game so easy and fun to play. Tyler’s confidence with the puck was something unimaginable, he would pull out moves that have never been seen. he would do this on a nightly basis and he could also pass the puck with the best of them. And Alex Seguin, I can go on all day about him. His dangles and skill was incredible. He would put the puck in the net at every opportunity, making d-men and goalies look silly every single night.

Not only was it a single player that opened my eyes over the years, it was more the chemistry of these lines and all these teammates.

 

Of Your Former Flyers’ Teammates (Not including yourself)….

 

Who Was the Funniest:

hmm. Lots of beauties through the years.

Tyler Quigley.

On and off the ice he will make you cry laughing. Showed up to the rink one day looking at me with only the left side of his face with his big red beard. I say “why is he being weird?”. Finally, he turns his face and exposes his pale white clean shaved half face like it was no big deal.

Bahamas team bonding trip, Tyler Shaved the Batman logo into his thick red chest hair. he was a celebrity on that trip that’s for sure haha. These are just two of the hilarious daily things that Ty would do to make everyone laugh. Not very often you wouldn’t be laughing with Ty around.

 

Kyle Bowman is also one of the funniest. From just simple words, to chirps, jokes and sayings Bow always has me laughing out loud. “Yeaaaauuh”

 

Who Was the Hardest Hitter:

Brett Langlois hands down.

The amount of bone crushing hits he delivered over the years was incredible. Hits that belong on Don Cherry Rock Em Sock Ems. What made it even better was Langer would take on anyone who came at him after, and more than often he would beat them up too. Im sure theres still a few guys lying on the ice after a Langer hit.

 

Who Was the Best Skater: 

Dakota Olvin.

Very smooth and fast. I would say possibly the best skater in the league. Not many players could keep up with him when he wanted to go for a boot up the ice with the puck.

Another good skater was Matt Ogden. Oggy was very agile and fast. He created so many breakaways over the years with his speed.

 

Who Had the Hardest Shot:

Nick Beaune.

the Bone-saw had a clapper. his slap-shot was very heavy and accurate. Coach would put him in the shootout sometimes, and you can only guess what he did..

 

Who Did Opponents Hate to Play Against the Most: 

Brett Langlois.

Langer would destroy anyone in his path in any game and then take on anyone in the league in a fight. If Langer was on the ice you better have your head up.

Alex Seguin was also tough to play against because he was always chirping at someone (not the best chirps though haha) and then he would rub it in with one of his many goals or highlight reel plays.

 

What Was the Most Memorable Goal You Scored:

hmm, theres a few that come to mind but my favorite would be scoring the game tying goal in LaSalle in the playoffs on a penalty shot tying the game at 1 with 10 minutes left. I went back-hand five hole. We went on to win that game 2-1 in overtime. One of the bigger goals I’ve scored in my career, the pressure was on.

 

Favourite Flyers’ Memory:

there are honestly so many good memories over my years playing for the Flyers. Team cruises in Bahamas, post game nights at Jose’s, running treehouse with the boys, there are so many fun moments and memories with these guys and I wish i could re-live them.

I didn’t have the pleasure of winning a championship but we won many hockey games and were one of if not the best team in the league and I will always remember winning many games and doing it with my best friends is something I wouldn’t trade for the world.

 

One more.. in my first year playing for the Flyers our team went down 8-1 to Chatham half way through the game. We ended up coming back to tie it at 8 only to lose in Overtime. This is one i will never forget, so wild.

 

Are You Still Involved in Hockey (if so how):

I am still playing hockey to this day. in the future I would love to be a coach. My whole life has revolved around hockey and i would love it if it continues that way.

 

In Your Opinion What Does It Mean To Be a Leamington Flyer:

To this day, I dedicate much of my success as not only a hockey player but a human being to what i learned from Tony Piroski, Jamie McDermott and the Flyers coaching staff. for one, hockey was made simple and effective. Defense became something enjoyable and battles became ways to unite and gain trust with teammates. Winning became easier because we were a family. But, being a flyer was much more than just playing the game. Being a Flyer meant to be a successful individual on and off the ice in all aspects of life. Being a Flyer has and will always be one of my most treasured years as it has helped mold myself into who I am today. I am very thankful that I had the opportunity to wear the red and white.

 

Go Flees!

 

Cheyne Matheson #12

 

Thank you for everything, Leamington Flyers.

 

 

Alex Derksen

Name: Alex Derksen

Number: 7

Alex Derksen, a native of Saline, Michigan joined the Flyers prior to the 2014-2015 season coming to the team from the Victory Honda U18 team in the US. Alex went on to be a major piece of the both the Flyers Western Conference Championship & the Essex 73’s All Ontario Championship that year.

Current Life:

After playing for the Flyers, I made my way back home to the States to start going to school for Professional Golf Management at Ferris State University. I am currently living in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and am working at the Broadmoor Golf Club as an assistant golf professional. I plan on finishing school with a business degree, and continue to work in the golf industry.

 

Years Played as a Flyer:

 

2014-2015 season

 

Best GOJHL Player You Played Against:

 

Don’t remember

 

Best Player You Played With:

 

Jake McGhee

 

Of Your Former Flyers’ Teammates (Not including yourself)….

 

Who Was the Funniest:

 

JP Grineau

 

Who Was the Hardest Hitter:

 

Blaine Bechard

 

Who Was the Best Skater:

 

Chris Scott

 

Who Had the Hardest Shot:

 

Matthew Opblinger

 

Who Did Opponents Hate to Play Against the Most:

 

Ryan Muzzin

 

What Was the Most Memorable Goal You Scored:

 

Didn’t score any

 

Favourite Flyers’ Memory:

 

The cruise

 

Are You Still Involved in Hockey (if so how):

 

I still play beer league 2-3 times a week at school and look to continue to play recreationally in coming years.

 

In Your Opinion What Does It Mean To Be a Leamington Flyer:

——–

To be a Leamington Flyer is more than just playing for a hockey team. It’s playing for the whole town. The amount of support we received from the fans on a nightly basis was incredible, whether we were playing at home, or on the road. Having the opportunity to play for the Flyers was something I wouldn’t have given up for anything. The ownership, along with the coaching staff and all of the players who have been a part of the Flyers are the reason why Leamington is a first class organization and will continue to be for years to come. I owe the entire town of Leamington a huge thank you for making the one short year I spent with the team feel like home.

Tim Oliphant

Name: Tim Oliphant

 

Number:

 

Current Life::  I work for Essex County Highways as a mechanic married to Lynn and i have 2 children: a daughter Kendra who is a nurse out in North Battleford and a son, Brett who played for the Flyers.

 

Years Played as a Flyer:  76-77 – 80-81

 

Best GOJHL Player You Played Against: Brian Hills

 

Best Player You Played With: Dave Drummond

 

Of Your Former Flyers’ Teammates….

 

Who Was the Funniest:  Coach Reg Mullholland best one liners still used them when I coached

 

Who Was the Hardest Hitter: Gary Gayer, Rob Willan ( hip check )

 

Who Was the Best Skater: Rob Willan

 

Who Had the Hardest Shot: Mark Johnston never took a slap shot all wrist and snap shots and very accurate

 

Who Did Opponents Hate to Play Against the Most: all of us

 

What Was the Most Memorable Goal You Scored: all of them cause i wasnt a big goal scorer but i was a team player Reg taught me the wheel and shoot and it  always caught the goalies off guard

 

Favourite Flyers’ Memory: winning a Ontario Jr C championship with the Flyers and we did it in style after we left this area we won our next 3 series 4 games straight. Reg new he had a team that wanted to win. There was a game that he give it to Jimmy Horvath for being out of shape, so he told Jimmy to be at the arena the next morning at 7 before school by himself and do red line blue line for an hour. But Reg looked out from the horse barns were he trained horses and seen that all 25 of us showed up

 

 

Are You Still Involved in Hockey (if so how): yes equipment manager with the Wheatley Sharks

 

In Your Opinion What Does It Mean To Be a Leamington Flyer: I moved here from Dresden in 1975 and everyone said the Leamington Flyers was the place to play and they were right i am proud to say i played for the Flyers for 4 years cause they treated the players with class! and after that I stayed on the executive for a few years.

 

 

 

Brett Langlois

Name: Brett Langlois

 

Number: 27

 

Brett Langlois joined the Flyers in September of 2011. A big body, Brett was known for being amongst the most physical Defenceman in the League. Brett’s bone crunching body checks and 10-0 record with the gloves off are what Flyers’ fan will remember most about big #27. Brett would go on to have 111 Games Played, 6 Goals, 23 Assists, 29 Points and 215 PIMs in a Flyers uniform before being dealt to LaSalle in the deal that brought Dylan Seguin & Kyle Quick to Leamington. Brett would play in two All Star Games with the Vipers, captaining the team in 2014-2015.

Current Life:

I am currently 23 years old, living in Tecumseh, Ontario, Canada. At this point in time i am working towards completing my ticket to become a Licensed Journeyman Electrician.

Years Played as a Flyer:

2011-2013

Best GOJHL Player You Played Against:

The Best Player i played against would have to be Adam Arseneault. His skill was unmatched. He was a very well rounded player with a big body. Myself being a defenceman you made sure that when Adam Arseneault was on the ice, you better be on your A game.

Best Player You Played With:

Forward: Alex Seguin – Lets just say i had the pleasure to play with Alex and the displeasure of playing against Alex. Alex was one of the best hockey minds I seen in my 4 years of playing Jr. His creativity and his ability to handle the puck made him a threat every time he touched the puck. Although Alex was never the biggest nor strongestplayer, it never stopped him from throwing his weight around either. Lets just say iwas on the receiving end more that a couple of times in our times against each other. All in all Alex was an very successful hockey player but on top of that he was a Mentor, Leader and most importantly a good friend in the locker room.

Defence: Ron Soucie

I can’t say enough about Ron. He was by far the best defence man I’ve ever played with. On top of the fact that he was the best defence man it was his other attributes that made an impact on me, The Leadership, Maturity and Guidance that Ron provided to the team was inspiring. As a player and person i strived to be more like Ron mimicking his play and implementing his attitudes greatly helped me improve as a player and more importantly as a better human being. Ron was one of the most influential people in my Junior hockey career. It was because of Ron that i set a very ambitious goal for myself and that was to eventual become a captain too. Ron was a true Role model for me and the best Captain I’ve ever had. Thanks Ron

Of Your Former Flyers’ Teammates (Not including yourself)….

Who Was the Funniest: Tony Spidalieri
Hands down the funniest locker room guy I’ve ever been around, once you got Tony on a roll there was no stopping him! Even to this day running into Tony is an absolute pleasure and a blast to be around,

Who Was the Hardest Hitter: Eric Leardi

If i had to be Bias id say myself but if i had to choose id say Eric Leardi was not shy about throwing his weight around, every game.

Who Was the Best Skater: Dakota Olvin

By Far best Skater, I was lucky enough to be his defence partner. Lets just say he saved me more than a couple times after a bad pinch. His speed was something you don’t see to often.

Who Had the Hardest Shot: Ron Soucie

It was official we held a skills competition and Ron blew everyone out of the water. No contest.

Who Did Opponents Hate to Play Against the Most: Eric Leardi,
Eric was a hard working nose to the grind stone kind of player. He knew his job and he did it well. Lets just say he was a big piece of sand paper on that ice, constantly finishing hits and doing what it took to better the team. Its easy to see how other player might not like that kind of player

What Was the Most Memorable Goal You Scored: I wasn’t much of a goal scorer but I did like to hit.

 

The Most Memorable hit i had the pleasure of giving was against the LaSalle vipers when a player gave his teammate, what we call in the hockey community a “suicide pass”. Lets just say i made the most of that opportunity at centre ice. When the gloves keep going with out the body it’s usually the sign you hit him a little hard

Favourite Flyers’ Memory: Flyers Cruises

Flyers Cruises were and always will be some of my most cherished moments in playing junior hockey. Very lucky and privileged to have had the owners and coaches we had that made those trips possible.

Are You Still Involved in Hockey (if so how): No i have stepped away from the game of hockey but still remain playing in recreational leagues during the summer and winter

In Your Opinion What Does It Mean To Be a Leamington Flyer: It means to be part of a select few that get to experience the full package that a junior hockey team has to offer. From the facilities, equipment, coaching, staff and the fans. Yet the most important part of the whole organization are Owners Jake & Abe Fehr for they make playing for the Leamington Flyers an absolute Dream come true for a young hockey player.

 

 

 

Dakota Olvin

Name: Dakota Olvin

 

Number: 28

 

Dakota Olvin joined the Flyers prior to the 2011-2012 season. The Howell, MI native went on to play two seasons for the Flyers. Dakota was an elite skating Defenceman which certainly helped him in obtaining Western Conference Defenceman of the Month Honours in September of 2013. He was also selected to the Western Conference All-Star Team in 2013. Dakota would finish his Flyers career with 101 Games Played, 10 Goals, 28 Assists, 38 Points and 79 PIMs

 

Current Life:

 

I’m at now 24 years old, living back in Howell, Michigan. I am not married and don’t have any kids. This past year I graduated with my bachelors degree in health sciences and played hockey for Rochester College while I was there for 4 years and was lucky enough to be chosen as the captain for all 4 years there.

 

Years as a flyer:

2011-2013

 

Best GOJHL player that you played against:

Dylan Seguin, we had some great battles playing against each other

 

Best player you played with:

Alex Seguin, something happened everything he touched the ice. He was awesome to watch when he had the puck.

 

Who was the funniest:

Tyler Quigley, he was always making everyone laugh everyday.

 

Who was the hardest hitter:

Brett Langlois, he hurt more kids than anyone else I’ve ever played with.

 

Who was the best skater:

Cheyne Matheson, He was always moving way faster than you think because he was such a smooth skater.

 

Who had the hardest shot:

Nick Beaune, no one wanted to stand in front when this guy was shooting.

 

Who Did Opponents Hate to Play Against the Most:

Alex Seguin, because he was more than likely going to make you look stupid, score and then chirp you all game.

 

What Was the Most Memorable Goal You Scored:

My first playoff goal. It was a home game and let a wrist shot go from the point, low blocker, post and in.

 

Favourite Flyers’ Memory:

Stepping on the ice for every home game with boys. Loved playing in front of our fans, the best fans in the league.

 

Are You Still Involved in Hockey (if so how):

I am currently trying out for the Birmingham Bulls in the SPHL.

 

In Your Opinion What Does It Mean To Be a Leamington Flyer:

To me, being a Leamington Flyer means being the best man you can be, on and off the ice. It means always putting in the work and doing what it takes to achieve your goals. I am extremely happy that I was chosen to be a Flyer and I am also very proud to be a Flyers’ Alumni.

Thank you to all of my coaches, teammates and all of the fans for an amazing 2 years.

 

 

 

Jake McGhee

Name: Jake McGhee

 

Number: 5

 

Years Played: 2011-2016

 

Jake McGhee joined the Flyers as 16 year old in the 2011-2012 season. Jake went on to play 5 full seasons in a Flyers’ jersey. While he wasn’t known to light up the score sheet, his leadership and steady defense were second to none. Jake’s defensive process lead him to be selected as Western Conference Defensive Player of the Month 3 times during his career (September 2013, October 2014, September 2015). Jake was also an Assistant Captain on the Flyers 2014-2015 Team and wore the ‘C’ in 2015-2016. Jake would finish his career with 272 Games Played, 16 Goals, 51 Assists, 67 Points and 493 PIMs all in a Flyers uniform.

 

Write a Paragraph About Your Current Life: (Age, Current Hometown, Are You Married/Engaged, Do You Have Any Children? Current School/Occupation, Any other significant details):

Years Played as a Flyer:

 

I was fortunate enough to sign with Leamington as a 16 year old rookie in the 2011-12 season and continued to play for the Flyers until the 2015-16 season for a total of 5 years. I  am now 22 years old and have since finished my degree at the University of Windsor and begun my career in Law Enforcement.

 

Best GOJHL Player You Played Against:

I played against a number of very excellent players over the years but I think the most dominate player had to be Davis Brown. We were both 16 year old rookies when we played against each other. I don’t think I have ever seen anyone score the way Brown was able to, especially as a 16 year old. I believe he had close to 50 goals that year with the Strathroy Rockets.

 

Best Player You Played With:

I would say Mitch Amante was the best player I ever played with. He had the ability to speed up and slow down a game. I have never seen anyone be able to control a game like Mitch did.

 

Of Your Former Flyers’ Teammates (Not including yourself)….

 

Who Was the Funniest:

We had a lot of jokesters over the years but I would probably have to say Scott Emerson. He would always be doing something dumb or say something stupid that would make you laugh, especially in between periods. Hands down one of the funniest guys you will ever meet.

 

Who Was the Hardest Hitter:

Brett Langlois….if  he stepped up and connected with you (which was probably a 1:10 hit/miss ratio) it would likely result in the end of your night. He was like a wrecking ball on ice. Honourable mentions go to David Storey and Aaron Langlois.

 

Who Was the Best Skater:

We had a lot of pretty good skaters over the years but I think Alex Friesen may have been the best overall. He was fast, smooth and shifty. Jared Dennis was also an amazing skater.

 

Who Had the Hardest Shot:

Ron Soucie probably had the hardest. The Opblinger brothers both had amazing shots as well.

 

Who Did Opponents Hate to Play Against the Most:

My last year there were a handful of guys we had that everybody hated to play against. Luke Sanko drove everybody crazy, he would draw at least 2-3 penalties per game.  We also had David Storey, Aaron Langlois and Scott Emerson all of whom would nearly break the boards whenever they hit someone. They were pretty quick to toss the gloves and take care of business with their fists too. Teams hating playing us that year.

 

What Was the Most Memorable Goal You Scored:

Goals didn’t exactly come in bunches for me, so anytime I scored it was usually pretty memorable.

 

Favourite Flyers’ Memory:

My favourite memories were winning the Western Conference Championship in back to back years.

 

Are You Still Involved in Hockey (if so how):

I was lucky enough to be able to stick around last year with Leamington and help out on the coaching side.

 

In Your Opinion What Does It Mean To Be a Leamington Flyer:

A lot of my best friends and memories came from my years playing with the Flyers. The Leamington Flyers organization is a notch above the rest in my opinion in terms of ownership, coaching and the quality of people within. I believe this is a big reason why we were able to put together such successful teams each year.

 

 

 

Kyle Bowman

Name: Kyle Bowman

Number: 19, 25

Wheatley native Kyle Bowman joined the Flyers as 16 year old during the 2008-2009 Season. Kyle was then traded to the Chatham Maroons the following year before returning to the Flyers in late 2010. Kyle would then finish career in a Flyers uniform, being selected as an Assistant Captain in 2012-2013 and leading the Flyers in scoring in 2010-2011.

Kyle would finish his career with 193 Games Played, 34 Goals, 59 Assists & 93 Points in a Flyers uniform.

 

Write a Paragraph About Your Current Life: (Age, Current Hometown, Are You Married/Engaged, Do You Have Any Children? Current School/Occupation, Any other significant details):

I’m currently 25 years old and residing in Wheatley, ON. I’ve previously completed my diploma in Law & Security and am currently finishing my Psychology degree this summer at the University of Windsor with hopes to pursue a career in customs. I enjoy playing beer league hockey in my spare time and have the privilege to skate with a lot of former flyer teammates, which adds a nice camaraderie.

Years Played as a Flyer: 

2008-2009, 2010-2013

 

Best GOJHL Player You Played Against: 

The best player I played against in the GOJHL was probably Stephen Sanza. As a 16 year old my first year in Leamington, you don’t really know what to expect with your opponents but I remember watching him perform and it being an absolute eye opener. He could make incredible plays at top speed, and take full control of the game every time he was on the ice.

Best Player You Played With: 

I had the privilege of being on the same teams as a lot of very talented players so this question is a tough one for me but I would say Cheyne Matheson and Alex Seguin are definitely up there in my books. Between Cheynes great release and quick feet along with Seegs’ smooth wizardry with the puck and playmaking ability, they definitely possessed a lot of the special traits that good players bring to the table and were both key elements for our team on and off the ice.

Of Your Former Flyers’ Teammates (Not including yourself)….

 

Who Was the Funniest:

We always had a lot of unique personalities in our dressing room over the years so I get a kick out of reflecting back on this one. However, when it comes down to it I’d probably have to go with Tyler Quigley and Nicholas Nicodemo. They’re definitely two guys that could always bring a positive light to the room when things were a little quiet or if you just simply needed a good chuckle.

Who Was the Hardest Hitter:

I know I’m on a roll with doubling up on these questions but the hardest hitters I played with would have to be Brett Langlois and Sean St. Louis.

Who Was the Best Skater: 

The best skater that I played with on the Flyers would be Dakota Olvin. We were pretty fortunate to have that speed on the back end.

 

Who Had the Hardest Shot:

Although sometimes you had absolutely no idea where it was going, Nick Beaune probably had one of the hardest and I’ve never seen someone use a slap shot more in shoot-outs.

Who Did Opponents Hate to Play Against the Most:

Tyler Coleman

What Was the Most Memorable Goal You Scored:

My most memorable goal was probably getting the monkey off my back and scoring my first as a Flyer

Favourite Flyers’ Memory:

The 3 cruises to the Bahamas’ were definitely some of my favourite memories with the team.

Are You Still Involved in Hockey (if so how):

After I finished my career with the Flyers I wanted to make a point to give back to the game that gave me so much, so I decided to coach two years of AAA hockey in Windsor/Essex. It was a rewarding feeling helping young guys and watching them prosper and develop into great players but more importantly great people. Aside from coaching I still skate quite often in different pick up leagues throughout the winter and summer.

In Your Opinion What Does It Mean To Be a Leamington Flyer:

To me, being a Leamington Flyer means to rise above your own individual goals and put your focus on coming together and winning as a team. You learn to pay a greater price than your opponents if you want to be successful and Tony Piroski was very influential by etching that mindset into every player’s head that wore a Leamington Flyers jersey. The 4 years playing for that organization was some of the best years of my life and as much I wish I could go back in time again it’s a special feeling knowing I’ve met some fantastic people during that period and close friendships that I’ll have for the rest of my life. Thanks for the memories Leamington!

 

Thank you for everything, Leamington Flyers.

 

 

 

Alex Seguin

Name: Alex Seguin

Number: 10

Alex joined the Flyers at the beginning of the 2010-2011 after putting together a remarkable year as a 16 year old with the Blenheim Blades. Alex put up 29 Goals & 40 Assists in 39 Games en route to a Rookie of the Year Award while with the Blades. Alex holds the honour of being the first player committed to by the Flyers under the Piroski/Fehr regime.

Alex’s career with the Flyers was a remarkable one. During his rookie season Alex continued where he left off with Blenheim, being named to the Western Conference Rookie All-Star Team. His 18 year old season was a breakout year. He scored 35 Goals and 38 Assists in 46 games, while being named to the Western Conference All-Star Team & Top Prospects Team. He also had a memorable 24 Game point streak during that season. At age 19, Alex was named the Flyers Captain. During this season he lead the Flyers to their first series victory after a long drought along with being named to the All-Star Team once again. In his final season Alex was a monumental part of the Flyers winning their first Conference Championship in franchise history.

The Flyers struck gold with their first signing in a new era with Alex Seguin. Alex played 228 Games, scored 112 Goals, had 125 Assists and 212 Penalty Minutes. He lead the Flyers in scoring in 3 consecutive seasons (2011-2012, 2012-2013, 2013-2014), was a 3 time All-Star, Rookie All-Star and Captain. His leadership and offensive prowess were examples of attributes that allowed him to become one of the most impactful and most popular players that the Flyers have had in recent memory

Current Life:

After my last year as a Flyer, I moved to Nashville,Tennessee with the hopes of turning music recording in to a career. I’m currently 23 years old, still living in Nashville and working as a recording engineer for an artist named Hunter Hayes and also as a Front of House engineer and Production Manager for an artist named Billy Raffoul. Not a day goes by that I don’t miss hockey and wish that I could go back and re-experience my time as a Flyer. It was the best 4 years of my life so far.

After my last year as a Flyer, I moved to Nashville,Tennessee with the hopes of turning music recording in to a career. I’m currently 23 years old, still living in Nashville and working as a recording engineer for an artist named Hunter Hayes and also as a Front of House engineer and Production Manager for an artist named Billy Raffoul. Not a day goes by that I don’t miss hockey and wish I could go back and re-experience my time as a Flyer. It was the best 4 years of my life so far.

Years Played as a Flyer: 

2010-2014

I played for the Leamington Flyers for 4 years.

Best GOJHL Player You Played Against: 

The best player I played against in the GOJHL was probably Adam Arseneault. He was a guy who made you hold your breath every time he was on the ice.

Best Player You Played With: 

The best player I had the privilege of playing with was Dylan Seguin. He was the most respected player on our team and everything just seemed to get easier when he was on your line. He wasn’t necessarily the highest goal scorer or point getter, but he was hands down the most well rounded and hard working player I’ve played with in my hockey career.

Of Your Former Flyers’ Teammates (Not including yourself)….

Who Was the Funniest:

It’s tough to narrow it down because the team was so full of personality, but the funniest guy I played with was probably Tyler Quigley. Not really for his dressing room antics, but more for his on-ice behaviour. I’ve never seen anyone have so much fun while playing hockey, it was contagious.

Who Was the Hardest Hitter:

During my 4 years in the GOJHL, I didn’t see anyone lay a more devastating hit than Brett Langlois. If he was on the ice, you’d better keep your head up.

Who Was the Best Skater: 

The best skater that I played with on the Flyers was probably Dakota Olvin. I don’t think any of us could catch him in skating drills during practice. He was one hell of a defenseman as well.

Who Had the Hardest Shot:

Nathan Opblinger had one of the best releases I’ve seen in junior hockey. His snapshot was as hard as most guys slap shots but without the give away of a huge wind up. It didn’t matter if he was on offense or defense, he was always lethal on the ice.

Who Did Opponents Hate to Play Against the Most:

Dylan Seguin was by far the most aggravating player to play against. He did everything from battling in the corners to scoring goals. He was an all around player, a great leader, and was definitely someone you wanted on your team.

What Was the Most Memorable Goal You Scored:

My most memorable goal was my 100th Junior B career goal. All the more sweeter that it was against LaSalle, I’ll never forget that one!

Favourite Flyers’ Memory:

Having been on 4 cruises with the team, I can confidently say that there are too many to choose from! But being the first Flyers team to win a Western Conference championship was definitely the highlight of my hockey career.

Are You Still Involved in Hockey (if so how):

Hockey will always be a part of my life and even though I don’t get the chance to play that often in Nashville, I make a point to step on the ice every time I’m back home.

In Your Opinion What Does It Mean To Be a Leamington Flyer:

To me, being a Leamington Flyer means to be apart of something greater than yourself. The biggest lesson I learned from Tony Piroski was how to look beyond your own individual goals and realize the value of winning as a team. I’m extremely grateful for the experiences I shared with the team and I will be forever humbled in knowing that I’ll carry a winning mindset with me for the rest of my life.

“To be a champion is to pay a greater price than your opponent.”

Thank you for everything, Leamington Flyers.

#10 Alex Seguin

Wayne Beneteau ‘Beny’

 

Year(s) played with the Flyers: 3 (73/74-75/76)

Position: Goaltender

Number: 1 & 17

Favourite memory as a Flyer: Beating Essex in the playoffs in their innaugural year

Current location:  Windsor, Ontario

Current occupation:  Lift truck driver……Chrysler Canada….Minivan Plant


Dave Bickford

 

Year(s) with the Flyers: 3 (’86-’89)

Position: Trainer

Favourite memory as a Flyer: Any game versus the Essex 73’s

Current location: Belleville, Ontario

Current occupation: Canadian Air Force (CC130J Loadmaster based at CFB Trenton)


Doug Bowman

 

Year(s) played with the Flyers: 1969/70

Position: Right Wing

Number: 11

Current location: Warrenton, Virginia

Current occupation: Energy Consultant


Greg Dries

 

Year(s) played with the Flyers:  1987/88, 1991/1992

Position: Defence

Number: 14

Favourite memory as a Flyer: My favourite memory as a Flyer was playing for a packed house at the old arena every Thursday night.

Current location:  Leamington, ON

Current occupation: Farmer


Richard Gazzola

 

Year(s) played with the Flyers: 2 (57/58)

Position: Defence

Favourite memory as a Flyer: The odd party that  burgess threw and the night pre game goalie warm up where the goalie [no masks] got his face split with the puck by a player

Current location:  Guelph

Current occupation: Professional engineer and lawyer in Guelph


Stephane Gervais

 

Year(s) played with the Flyers: 2000-2003

Position: Right Wing

Number: 15

Favourite memory as a Flyer: Upsetting Petrolia in the 1st round of the 2001 Playoffs

Current location: France

Current occupation: Pro Hockey Player


Darrin Harrison

 

Year(s) played with the Flyers: 1980-81 till 1983-84

Position: center-winger

Number: #20

Favourite memory as a Flyer: Went to 2 ontario finals.Won 2 leamington xmas tournaments.

Current location: Leamington

Current occupation: sales, Essex Appliance

Comments: Went on to be team trainer for 3 years after playing. Led team in scoring my last year playing.


Harold Konrad

 

Year(s) played with the Flyers: Was 1st General Manager of Leamington Flyers as a Junior B team 1992 – 1998

Favourite memory as a Flyer:  Seeing players listed below pursue their hockey dreams.

 

Allen, Chris –Kingston Frontenacs 1st round draft choice, Florida Panthers draft choice

Alent, Brian – Scholarship, University of Finlay

Allick, Bill  – Scholarship, University of Illinois Chicago, University of Windsor

Anderson, Jay – Windsor Spitfires draft choice

Awender, Darren – Scholarship, University of Alabama-Huntsville

Bacik, Tim  – Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds draft choice

Bacik, Scott – University of Windsor

Baclig, Jason – Windsor Spitfires draft choice

Beazley, Paul – Windsor Spitfires draft choice

Belleau, Rob – Detroit Jr. Wings draft choice

Chinnick, Todd – Niagara Falls Thunder draft choice

Coulter, Matt –  Guelph Storm draft choice, Canisius College

Dame, Brad – Scholarship, University of Alabama-Hunstville

Desjarlais, Craig – Scholarship, Bowling Green State University

Dolecki, Dave – Ryerson Institute of Technology

Edinger, Adam  – Owen Sound Platers draft choice, Scholarship, Bowling Green State University, New York Islanders draft choice

Ellsworth, Cameron – Windsor Spitfires draft choice

Faubert, Ryan – Scholarship, Colgate University

Farias, Jamie – University of Windsor

Findlay, Tim – Windsor Spitfires draft choice, Scholarship, University of Illinois, Chicago

Garza, Kurt – Scholarship, United States Military Academy

Gleason, Tim – Windsor Spitfires 1st round draft choice, Team USA in World Junior Hockey Tournament, 2001, Drafted by Ottawa Senators and still playing for Carolina Hurricanes

Heffernan, Greg – Concordia University

Ippoliti, Steve  – Belleville Bulls draft choice

James, Phil – Ryerson Institute of Technology

Kantu, Chris  – North Bay Centennials draft choice

Kennedy, Sean – Peterborough Petes draft choice

Kettlewell, Tim  – Detroit Jr. Wings draft choice

Kiss, Steve – Munkfors IFK, Sweden

Lantz, Tim – Sarnia Sting draft choice

Lapointe, Junior –  Ottawa 67’s draft choice

Maleyko, Jason – Oshawa Generals draft choice

Mills, Steve  – Windsor Spitfires draft choice

Milosevski, Steve – Sarnia Sting draft choice

Nahrirniak, Andrew  Scholarship, Niagara University

Nowasad, Stewart  – Scholarship, Bowling Green State University

Ott, Steve  – Windsor Spitfires draft choice, Team Canada in World Junior Tournament, 2001, Drafted and still playing for the Dallas Stars

Penner, Jason  – Sarnia Sting 1st round draft choice

Pucovsky, Kevin – Scholarship, University of Alabama-Huntsville, University of Windsor

Reitz, Erik – Barrie Colts 1st round draft choice, Minnesota Wild draft choice

Roach, Kevin  – University of Windsor

Rosati, Rob  – Scholarship, Lake Superior State University

Schmidt, Darren  – Kitchener Rangers draft choice

Setterington, Aaron –  Sir Sanford Fleming College

Smith, Rick – Windsor Spitfires draft choice

Spadafora, Paul  – Hull Olympiques free agent

Stahlbrand, Jeff – Scholarship, University of Findlay

Stubbington, Brandon – London Knights draft choice

Sutherland, Tyler – Sarnia Sting draft choice, Scholarship, Cornell University

Stephens, Charlie  –  St. Mikes Majors 1st overall draft choice, Washington Capitals draft choice, Presently playing professional hockey in Germany

Veres, Paul  –  Windsor Spitfires draft choice, Scholarship, University of Denver

Williams, Tom  – Scholarship, University of Alabama-Huntsville

Wilson, Jason  – Windsor Spitfires draft choice, Scholarship, Brown University

Yoker, Karl  – University of Windsor

 

Current location:                 Kingsville, ON          

Current occupation:           Retired from teaching.  I am presently working for General Motors as the Administrator of the Chevrolet Safe & Fun Hockey Program.  I am also a Player Representative for the Orr Hockey Group.


Ryan Medel

 

Year(s) played with the Flyers: 1 (2004-2005)

Position: Centre

Number: 25

Favourite memory as a Flyer: Playing in front of friends and family

Current location: Ottawa

Current occupation: Assistant Coach of Carleton Ravens (CIS)


Brian Plumb

 

Year(s) played with the Flyers:   3……. 1971/72 was my 1st year

Position:  Center

Number:  7

Favourite memory as a Flyer:   Winning the All Ontario Jr C in 1971/72

Current location:  Windsor / Leamington

Current occupation:  Insurance Broker, Southland Insurance

Comments:  1971/72 team we all were like a family


Jamie Stickney

 

Year(s) played with the Flyers: 2 (73/74, 74/75)

Position: forward

Number: 14

Favourite memory as a Flyer: 1 st year finished 5th in league , won league title , beat out Essex in finals ….

Current location: Wheatley

Current occupation: Warehouse Manager , HJ Heinz


Bill Sanford

Click the link below to read Bill Sanford’s favourite memories as a Flyer.

Bill Sandford