New goalie music to Rangers’ ears
Ukulele-playing prospect Parsons makes saves and strums strings
KITCHENER — Jackson Parsons can make saves and serenade his teammates.
“I play a little bit of the ukulele,” said the Kitchener Rangers’ newest goalie. “I got into guitar and after that figured why not try the ukulele? Now I play both.”
He’s even learned “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” the “Wizard of Oz” staple made famous on the uke by Hawaiian musician Israel Kamakawiwo’ole. It’s a favourite of his parents, Greg and Jennifer.
It was his dad who got him strumming about three years back. There are seven guitars in their Embrun home, which isn’t Oz, but sure can feel like it at times.
“It’s kind of the middle of nowhere,” said Parsons, of the Eastern Ontario town near the Quebec border. “If you’re at Tim Hortons, you’re going to see someone you know.”
The Rangers are hoping Parsons is the next wizard in net. The club signed the thirdround draft pick to a standard player agreement Wednesday after a stellar season with the Cornwall Colts, where he posted a 2.28 goals-against average and .929 save percentage.
His consistency had him rated high by Kitchener scouts all season.
“He understands what he needs to do in the net,” said Rangers goalie coach Kain Tisi. “He’s very efficient and has a lot of poise. He’s never really out of control, but, at the same time, he’s got tremendous athleticism and speed.”
Parsons has been in between the pipes since he was about seven. He admits it’s a stressful position but says he thrives under pressure.
“I want to be the reason why my team wins,” he added.
He wears No. 31 or 32 after his favourite NHL keepers Carey Price and Jonathan Quick, and wants Rangers fans to know that he’s athletic, fast and good at communicating with his teammates.
Parsons has never been to Kitchener, but can’t wait to get here. He’s been juggling, doing plyometrics and boning up on his history during isolation.
“I’m pretty sure I’ve watched every single video of the Kitchener Rangers on the face of the Earth,” said the six-foot, 185pounder.
Last season’s starter, Jacob Ingham, is likely destined for the pros after inking a deal with the Los Angeles Kings, which means there is an open spot in the crease alongside Lucas Pfeil in Kitchener. And that has Parsons’ attention.
“He’s going to give himself a great opportunity to be on our team,” said Tisi.
“He certainly has the skillset, maturity and understanding of his position that he’ll definitely push for a spot,” he added.
And, if he makes the squad, long bus rides should be livelier.
“When I was eight and all I played was (the video game) ‘Rock Band,’ I wanted to be in a band,” he said. “I never got to be in one.”