By Wayne E. Rivet

Staff Writer

Tyler LaPlante is one of the most hard working, coachable kids Ice Cats hockey coach Dave Lepage has ever met.

“This year, we are going to have to lean on him in every game and to this date he has responded with speed and a drive to be consistent,” Coach Lepage said. “As a junior (defenseman), Tyler is becoming one of the on ice leaders of the team, and the coaching staff looks for even bigger things to come from him.”

In recognition of his strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Tyler is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.” Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed t-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

The LaPlante File

Name: Tyler LaPlante

Year in School: Junior

Town: Bridgton

Parents: Gary and Janette

School Activities/Sports: Soccer, track and field, ice hockey

Q. Why did you choose ice hockey? TL. I have played hockey all my life and enjoy it the most. And, I have lots of friends on this team.

Q. What do you hope to accomplish this season? TL. I would like to make it to the playoffs.

Q. What do you enjoy the most? TL. I enjoy the intensity of the game, and the challenge of improving my skills.

Q. What do you like the least? TL. Disappointing my team with taking a bad penalty or letting a goal happen.

Q. What makes you successful? TL. My self-discipline to make myself better. I am always pushing to be the best.

Q. What would your dream moment be? TL. Being drafted to a National Hockey League team.

Q. What has hockey taught you? TL. Hockey has taught me to work with a team “as one.” We work together. You have to work hard to get what you want.

Q. Who has inspired you? TL. My parents are always pushing me to be better. Everyone has a pro player that they look up to — I look up to Johnny Boychuk of the Boston Bruins.