Last weekend when I started to write my speech, I sat in front of my computer, staring at the screen but totally had no idea. I even went to the Stanstead College website to read other prefect speeches, including some from 2020. But no matter how much I looked, I still didn’t know what to say.
Your Stanstead College Senior Boys Spartans participated in the historic Anderson Small Schools Provincial Tournament this past weekend, hosted this year by BCS in Lennoxville, QC. Here is how it went down.
A snowy night in Drummondville. L’Ecole Secondaire La Poudriere. The scoreboard reads 17-16 at halftime. We’re down. It’s been a scratchy game. I can’t complain about the effort, the boys are bringing the energy, but we’re a step late to loose balls, we’re fouling too much, we’re visibly upset at the tight whistle, and we’re letting our opponents get into the paint where they consistently wreak havoc. We’re not good with havoc, especially on the defensive end. Havoc creates gaps. It sends opposing players to the line. Havoc gets us in foul trouble.
SC kicked off the new year with their first game against Claretain following a well-earned break from academics. After two solid practices to shake off the rust, the team took the court eager to get back into the flow of basketball. However, the opening minutes revealed some lingering effects of the layoff. Defensive hesitancy, a lack of urgency in transition and shaky team chemistry made for a slow start, as SC conceded 12 points in the first six minutes.
Many people make New Year’s resolutions, but many of them don’t follow through. For my New Year's resolution, I want to overcome the difficulties I have faced. For instance, when I first arrived in Stanstead, it was completely different from the life I had previously lived; it was my first time living away from home. I often felt homesick and just wanted to pack my things and leave for a place that felt more comfortable and familiar.
The Grand Falls, New Brunswick product continues to pace the Spartan attack. Zackarie skates with pace offensively, and he along with linemates Kamyl Chemrouk and Ryan Dwyer are one of the top offensive combinations in prep hockey. His high motor and lethal shot continue to provide headaches for opposing defenders and goaltenders and has led to another successful month. The Spartans will count on Zackarie's consistent offensive play as they enter a busy month of January filled with strong New England and TNPHL league opponents.