One Step Closer

Luke Woodworth is one step closer to accomplishing a lifelong dream. The Drummondville Voltigeurs rookie forward was selected to attend Team Canada’s U-18 Summer Camp in Calgary.

“It means everything,” Woodworth said when asked about the impact of the news today.

“To be associated with the best players in the country is a pretty surreal feeling.”

“I’m really excited to compete alongside the best in the country at camp.”

The soft-spoken 17-year-old skilled forward is extremely grateful for the opportunity.

“To be able to wear the Maple Leaf at camp is an exciting feeling as there wasn’t a U-17 event so this is my first experience with the program.”

“I’ve always dreamed of wearing the Maple Leaf crest and I’m looking forward to getting to Calgary to get it all started.”

Woodworth turned in a very impressive rookie campaign with the Voltiguers. In 34 games, Woodworth, lite the lamp four times and added 20 assists. In three playoff games, he scored two goals.

Like so many other young aspiring players, the two-way center grew up watching Team Canada on the international stage. Watching the World Juniors was a family tradition.

“I can remember watching the World Juniors from a very young age with my Dad and to now be involved in the Hockey Canada program is surreal in a sense, but also a great feeling to be associated with the best in the country at my age,” admitted Woodworth.

Woodworth has never over powered his opponents. His speed, edge control and willingness to go to the dirty areas of the ice to make plays definitely sets him apart from other players his age and size. His ability to make plays in high traffic areas can be attributed to his terrific puck skills and offensive instincts and play making abilities.

He meticulously controls the play in all three zones. His elite level hockey sense is on full display every time he steps on the ice.

Woodworth is quick to credit the Voltiguers organization for his quick transition and early success in the QMJH.

“I had a great experience for my first year in Drummondville,” stressed Woodworth.

“Although it was a challenging year at times, our support staff really helped ease the load of the COVID situation to give us a positive experience.”

“The coaching staff gave me every chance to succeed as a rookie which definitely helped me play with confidence.”

Confidence is everything for young players. The confidence gained by attending a camp like this can be a game changer for any player moving forward especially one entering their NHL Draft year.

“I’m really excited for next year as we have a strong young group in Drummondville, hopefully we can grow together and have success as a whole,” explained Woodworth.

“Obviously having my NHL draft year coming up adds that extra element of pressure so hopefully I can put together a good year.”

Halifax Moosehead defenceman Jake Furlong was also selected to attend the prestigious camp.

“It means a lot,” Woodworth said of representing his hometown and province.

“I take a lot of pride in representing the South Shore of Nova Scotia and to be able to represent where I come from at the national level is very exciting to me.”

“Jake and I take a lot of pride in being from Nova Scotia and we’re looking forward to representing our province in a positive way at camp.”

From Bridgewater, to the bright lights on the national stage, Luke Woodworth is one step closer to his hockey dream.