DesRoches signs with Sea Dogs

Charlie DesRoches has decided to pursue the major junior hockey route.

The 16-year-old defenceman from Days Corner has signed with the Saint John Sea Dogs after he was selected in the second round, 32nd overall, in Saturday’s Quebec Major Junior Hockey League draft.

“I’m thrilled to be drafted by such a great organization, and I can’t wait to play for them,” DesRoches said.

When asked if there were any factors that played a big role in his decision, DesRoches responded: “They really want me, and I think they will be a really great team in a couple of years. To come in next year, it will be a lot of fun.”

DesRoches, who is listed as five-foot-nine and 157 pounds, is also excited to be playing much closer to home.

“To be able to have my parents, family and friends get out to a lot more games will be a lot more fun,” he added.

DesRoches, who had committed to Northeastern University in December 2017, admitted the decision to play major junior in Canada or college hockey in the United States was a difficult one.

“It was one I had to think about a lot, but in the end, I think I made the right choice,” said DesRoches, who is very excited about the Sea Dogs future.

“They had a great draft, and have had a lot of success the last few years,” he continued. “They know how to win, and I’m really excited.”

He is coming off a 42-point season in 53 games with the Selects Academy under-15 team at South Kent School in Connecticut. He registered 26 points in 33 games and an under-age player with the Kensington Monaghan Farms Wild during the 2016-17 New Brunswick/P.E.I. Major Midget Hockey League.

“I had a great year, really for my development and was able to do a lot of skill work,” said DesRoches.

“I really enjoyed it a lot down there.”

DesRoches said his goal in off-ice training this summer is Charlie DesRoches played the 2016-17 season with the Kensington Monaghan Farms Wild of the New Brunswick/Prince Edward Island Major Midget Hockey League.

to add strength and weight.

“I like to be a two-way defenceman,” he said. “I like to

use my skating and make good heads-up plays in my own end.”