THUNDER BAY – The Lakehead Thunderwolves have landed the biggest fish of them all.
The team on Friday announced it has gotten a commitment from Kam River Fighting Walleye defenceman and captain, Zach Fortin.
The 20-year-old spent parts of two seasons with the Gatineau Olympiques of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League before playing the 2019-20 and 2020-21 campaigns with the Timmins Rock of the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League.
He joined the Fighting Walleye this season and was named defenceman of the year in the Superior International Junior Hockey League, scoring 12 times and adding 32 assists in 42 appearances.
“It’s an honour to play at my hometown university in front of my family, friends, and mentors,” Fortin said in a release issued by the team, shortly after the commitment was announced by Lakehead hockey, adding he can’t wait to have his parents in the stands at Fort William Gardens watching him play for the Thunderwolves.
Lakehead coach Andrew Wilkins has kept a close eye on Fortin and his teammates, who are awaiting their Bill Salonen Cup championship round opponent.
“Zach has had an impressive year, he definitely fits the type of player and person we are looking to add to our program,” Wilkins said.
“Zach always plays a big role into team success. He has been put in a situation to play big minutes for his team and shown that his game is continuing to evolve. Zach is a standout leader by example and with his contagious style of play. It’s a good fit with our group and helps compliment our young D core.”
Kam River GM Kevin McCallum said the team couldn’t be happier for Fortin.
“He has been a huge asset for us and a true leader, and he’s chosen an amazing university to continue his education and play the game he loves. Zach is a special player and most importantly an amazing person. We look forward to seeing him in the Thunderwolves jersey and following his and his new teams’ future accomplishments,” McCallum said.
