Thunderchild leaves the Hawks

[Kristi]

Winter Hawks Defenseman Leaves Team
Dean Vrooman - September 15, 2006


Defenseman Lenny Thunderchild has elected to leave the Portland Winter Hawks and return home to Alberta.





“There is a high level of commitment required to play hockey at this level and Lenny was not prepared to make that commitment at this time,” said Portland Coach Mike Williamson. “Last year, when he came in, he had a long way to go and Lenny made a very big commitment to work his tail off on and off the ice. He earned a regular shift and he made tremendous strides in his education. Lenny has a strong sense of family and felt that he needed to go home.”

Thunderchild, 18, who was acquired last season in a trade with Lethbridge, was one of ten defensemen on the Hawks’ roster.

Portland now has 9 defensemen, 14 forwards and 2 goaltenders on its 2006-07 roster.

[Triton]

It was a disagreement with coaches and management.He didn't like what was being said..he took it to heart and bolted.Same thing happened with Collins.

[Redwic]

I liked Thunderchild, and thought/think that he has a lot of potential.

This "going back home" thing seems to be a growing trend in recent years, at least with WHL players, which is unfortunate.

[Rsthelen]

Thanks for going home.... he was horrible ... how do you show up for camp 30 pounds over weight and in the same breath say you care.....

[Swando]

Thanks for going home.... he was horrible ... how do you show up for camp 30 pounds over weight and in the same breath say you care.....

Must have enjoyed a lot of "pops" as Don Cherry would say..over the summer or maybe BIG MACS. 30 lbs as a teenage is rediculous. I wouldn't have let him on the ice!

[nivek_wahs]

I was going through the Alberta Junior Hockey League rosters/stats and found Thunderchild. He's listed as a trim 6'2 215lbs.

He seems to be adjusting alright... In 6 games with the Lloydminster Bobcats he has 1G & 4A for 5PTS (as of Oct. 17)

http://www.ajhl.ab.ca/leagues/roster...layerID=246412

[loudi94]

I liked Thunderchild, and thought/think that he has a lot of potential.

This "going back home" thing seems to be a growing trend in recent years, at least with WHL players, which is unfortunate.

On one hand there is a ton of pressure on these kids, moreso than before, some just want to have fun. On the other hand, unless a certain level of committment is reached, step aside and let someone who wants it more take your spot.

[Tipped Off]

I don't see what the problem is. Better he realize he doesn't want to play now and go hame than make the team, suit up for a few games, cause someone to miss out on a roster spot and then quit. I think one thing we have to keep in mind is Thunderchild was the "other" player who was helped off the ice last year against Seattle in the playoffs in the game Portland came back o win incredibly. Perhaps after a Summer to think about the hits and the fights he just decided it wasn't for him. After all, this is a developmental league in which very few players will ever reach the NHL. It is very hard to realize at some point you aren't going to make it. Perhaps he came to that realization and decided to get on with his life.