The Victoria Royals have had their share of notable defensemen during their franchise history. Players such as Joe Hicketts, Ryan Gagnon, Chaz Reddekopp and Ralph Jarratt immediately jump to mind. Like those former Royals, Gannon Laroque looks to be on a path to a memorable Western Hockey League career.
Laroque was a bright spot for the Royals this past Western Hockey League RE/MAX B.C Hub season. The 17-year-old defenseman played top minutes and stood out in a young defensive group. As such, he received the team award for 2020-2021 Defenseman of the Year. That team honour was followed by being ranked #219 by the NHL Central Scouting (North America skaters) for the 2021 NHL Entry Draft.
Not bad for a player passed over in the WHL Bantam draft. If he had flown under the radar of some teams, the Edmonton, AB has made the league take notice.
HIGHLIGHT REEL 🎥 We'll be seeing a lot more offence from #NHLDraft prospect Gannon Laroque this fall.#MeetTheFuture | @victoriaroyals pic.twitter.com/Cyu3UIO88f
— The WHL (@TheWHL) July 7, 2021
However, being ranked for the NHL draft doesn’t guarantee being selected, and Laroque views it with a cool calmness. After a few conversations with the young player, it is clear that is a trait he carries well. “I’m just trying to keep my normal routine and not think about it a whole lot,” said Laroque. “The draft is a big part of getting to the NHL, but it’s not the end of the world. Either way, if I get drafted or if I don’t, it’s going to be used as motivation to get to the next level.”
The defender got a taste of in-game experience in the 2019-20 season and made his debut last in some key games against the rival Vancouver Giants. That experience helped coming into this year with a full-time role. “I felt way more comfortable,” said the 2003-born defenceman. “Those games allowed me to see the work ethic and what was needed to become a top defenseman. It helped me coming into this past season. “
And with the experience also comes the confidence needed to take the next step and continue to improve.
“Just knowing your role and then having some success is definitely like a big confidence booster,” said Laroque. “Building and learning from every game is huge for your confidence.”
Victoria Royals Assistant Coach J.F. Best described the development of Laroque over the past season. “Gannon has improved every day since joining our team,” said Best. “It speaks to the type of person he is, mature, humble, and always approaching every opportunity with great detail and relentless professionalism.”
As with all young players, Laroque looks to his teammates to help him build as a player. Playing with veteran Matthew Smith gave a firsthand look at what Laroque needs to have a lengthy and successful WHL career. “It’s awesome to learn from players like Matthew Smith,” said Laroque. “He has so many games in the league. Learning from him the littlest of things like stick position really helps.”
Leading the defence! Congratulations to @LaroqueGannon for winning the Top Defenceman Award presented by @WilsonsBus! pic.twitter.com/L30UTBoncp
— Victoria Royals (@victoriaroyals) June 28, 2021
Additionally, the Royals’ coaching staff has been supportive of their young defender.
“The coaching staff is amazing on the bench in giving you feedback,” said Laroque. “It helps me, especially in games where we are going to be playing some big role minutes. If you make a mistake, don’t be hard on yourself. They want you to go back out there and play your game.”
“On the ice, Gannon is a competitive, tenacious, and hardworking defender, who already processes the game at a high level despite his relatively young age,” said Best. “We believe our fans will really enjoy watching him compete over the coming seasons.”
The defender mutually looks forward to returning to play in front of the crowds at the Save-On-Foods Centre in Victoria.
“I can’t even imagine playing in front of a crowd again,” said Laroque. “It will be simply amazing, especially in Victoria in front of the great fans. I’m really looking forward to it.”
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