The Trenton Golden Hawks have been the best team in the OJHL this season, and rookie defenceman Matt Hicks has embraced the challenge of playing on such a competitive squad.
At just 16 years old, he has stepped into the lineup and grown alongside some of the league’s top players, appearing in 35 regular-season games while registering one assist and 39 penalty minutes.
"It's been really great," Hicks said. "Playing with such a great team and great teammates really helps boost your confidence. It's helped elevate my game to the next level, so I've really enjoyed that."
Hicks has used the experience as an opportunity to push himself and learn from the veteran defencemen around him.
"It's been really exciting to see my improvement throughout the season," he said. "Playing with such great defencemen has really helped set role models for me and given me something to strive for in my own game."
A significant influence on Hicks' development has been the support and advice of his father, Shawn.
"He's always been a really big part of my hockey career," Hicks said. "It's been really fun to do this with my dad. I come home every night, and we talk about it. It's great."
Hicks a Trenton native grew up attending games and participating in activations with the Golden Hawks, making it even more exciting for him to now play in front of his hometown crowd.
"It's awesome playing in front of such passionate fans," Hicks said. "They give us a lot of energy. Thank you for always being there."
Balancing hockey and education is no easy task, but Hicks has found the perfect environment at World Elite Academy. The academy combines elite athletic development with a structured academic curriculum.
"It's very exciting. You're there with some of the younger kids, and they look up to you. The flexibility it gives me really shows just how important it is and how it can benefit other kids in the future."
"All the coaches who really want you to get better. Without the help of Pierre, Vinnie, Derek and Tom in the gym, I wouldn't be able to compete at this level at such a young age. They are the only reason it's possible."
With the Golden Hawks set to begin their East Conference semifinal series against the Stouffville Spirit this weekend, Hicks is ready for the intensity of playoff hockey.
"It's going to be a ride. It's going to be hard, but it's going to be really fun and rewarding once we get there. It's definitely something to look forward to."
Nothing is certain in the playoffs, but the Hawks will be able to rely on Hicks to provide youthful energy on a team filled with veterans as they push for a deep postseason run.
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