Building upon a solid first season, Donavan Houle-Villeneuve has developed into a strong contributor for the Flin Flon Bombers.
“Donavan is a big part of our team as he provides us with secondary scoring and a physical presence,” Bombers head coach Mike Reagan said. “He’s such a good skater and, when he’s on his game, he’s one of the best players on the team.”
Houle-Villeneuve can certainly contribute offensively. His eight goals and 26 points in 29 games already surpass the totals of seven and 21 that he posted as a rookie. Houle-Villeneuve was sixth on the team in scoring.
“The fact that it’s my second year in the league, I’m more confident and stronger. Also, I play with really good players on my line,” the 19-year-old said when asked about his increased production.
The 6-foot-1, 185-pound Houle-Villeneuve has lately been playing on a line with Brandson Hein and Nate Hooper. As of Sunday, Hein was second in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League in points with 48 and Hooper was tied for third with 46.
As a rookie, the Montreal product moved up to the Junior A level after playing prep school hockey in Quebec.
“Last season I had a big adjustment because I wasn’t used to the speed and size of the players,” he said.
Houle-Villeneuve certainly made strides and was rewarded with the Bombers’ most improved award at the year-end banquet. Now, he said, he feels more comfortable and confident.
Houle-Villeneuve started the season with a three-point game and has had two more since. He had two assists in a win over Humboldt on Friday night.
“I think I really improved in my physical game and my defensive side, even though I still have to get better in that area,” Houle-Villeneuve said.
Reagan sees a bright future for the forward.
“I think there is still a lot more in Donny,” he said. “His potential is so high and when he puts it all together on a consistent basis, it will be fun to watch.”
As well as hockey, Houle-Villeneuve has also worked hard in his studies. Last year he won the Bombers’ academic award. Houle-Villeneuve recently wrapped up a university math course and he plans to take another class after Christmas. He is not entirely sure what he will study after junior hockey, but he said it will relate to business.
But that is the future. For now, Houle-Villeneuve is focused on helping the Bombers be successful.
“Playing for a team that has as much history as the Bombers and the amount of fans and people who love the team is a part I really enjoy about being a Bomber,” he said.
