Draft Day Memories - Adam Fortier-Gendron
June 9, 2023 - Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL)
Moncton Wildcats News Release
July 4, 2022: A day the Moncton Wildcats and Adam Fortier-Gendron will not soon forget.
It's rare to see any hockey season get pushed into late June, not let alone July, but what everyone experienced with the pandemic over the last few years, that quickly became the new normal.
Usually by July, most QMJHL draft picks are gearing up for training camp and have already visited their future destination and second home for the next chapter of their hockey careers.
Last July, Adam Fortier-Gendron had no idea where he would land in the QMJHL.
"Looking back on it now, it was truly a great day," said Fortier-Gendron of his draft day experience.
"I had a few discussions and interviews with Moncton before the draft, but I was really happy to be a drafted by such a great organization like the Moncton Wildcats. Draft day will be a day I will never forget we had a lot of fun," explained Adam.
"With this years' draft fast approaching, I've been thinking back a lot on last years' experience," confessed Fortier-Gendron.
The QMJHL Entry Draft has a rich history and tradition. The league does a spectacular job showcasing the future stars of the league and beyond. Unfortunately, given the pandemic the QMJHL has had the draft virtually since 2020.
Fortier-Gendron, a long with countless other prospects shared their draft moments and memories with family and friends at unique draft parties.
"Everyone was so excited and happy when my name was called," said the 17-year-old defender.
"I had the opportunity to have all of my family close to me for that experience, it was so much fun and they were all really happy that I was selected."
The Moncton Wildcats General Manager of Hockey Operations Ritchie Thibeau and the entire scouting staff go deep when projecting future talent and prospects. From analytics to interviews, to questionnaires, no stone is left unturned when considering the future of the organization.
Fortier-Gendron was definitely surprised to hear his named called on draft day.
"It was a surprise. I had a couple of interviews and filled out a questionnaire for the team, the Wildcats were one of the teams that I didn't talk to a lot. I was really surprised in that moment when I heard my name, but it was a great surprise," explained Fortier-Gendron.
The young highly touted defender wanted to make a great first impression on the organization when he arrived for training camp.
"I really wanted to be ready when I arrived in Moncton in August, I wanted to be ready to go and get started right away. I had big summer of training, I was ready and prepared, and I wanted to have a good year, and wanted to get everything started in the right direction."
Fortier-Gendron's impact on the Wildcats blueline was instantaneous. The smooth skating two-way transitional defender played like a seasoned veteran at the drop of the puck.
Every young player and defenceman handles pressure and high expectations differently. Fortier-Gendron's character, quiet and calm demeanor on and off the ice are undoubtedly his strongest attributes.
"At the start, I did feel a little pressure, you want everyone to know that the team made a good pick in the draft, but the pressure only lasted a few days," admitted Fortier-Gendron. "Obviously, hockey players feel pressure from time to time, it's part of the game, but that's what it's all about, playing hockey is fun."
As for this year's crop of potential Wildcats draft picks, Fortier-Gendron is quick to offer up advice and guidance.
"I don't think there's going to be a lot of pressure on the draft picks this year. We have three picks in this year's draft, and I think we have a great team and organization that develops young players well. I think these players will adapt quickly and everyone will feel part of the team almost instantly," said Fortier-Gendron.
Fortier-Gendron will be confronted with a different type of pressure and expectations in his sophomore season with the Cats. The 2023-2024 season will be his NHL Draft Year.
"I've become really close with Etienne Morin this year and since I arrived here in Moncton. He's really helped me out a lot," Fortier-Gendron said when asked if he had spoke to Morin about his NHL Draft year and pressure.
"I'm aware that I need a big year, I'm going to do everything I can to do that, but I'm not going to put any added stress on myself just because it's my draft year, I want to be prepared and try to help the team the best I can. I'm really happy to be at this point of my career, I know where I am, I'm going to try to keep playing my game."
Moncton Wildcats 2023 Draft coverage is sponsored by Protrans Personnel Services.
The Wildcats hold the 1st overall pick on June 10 at the 2023 QMJHL Entry Draft in Sherbrooke. You can watch the Wildcats take the next step - 2023/2024 Season Seats are on sale now!
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