Full Circle

Full Circle

Nathan Welton and Connor Trenholm share a bond that will never be broken. Both brothers share an enormous amount of admiration for life, the game of hockey and of course each other. They can now say they shared the same number with same organization; to end their junior careers with the Moncton Wildcats. That’s right Connor Trenholm is a Moncton Wildcat

Most feel good stories write themselves, but this one is definitely extra special given both brothers unique stories.

Upon Trenholm’s arrival in the Port City during the trade period last year, he choose number 27 for a reason. His brother’s number. As they say the rest was history as Trenholm and the Sea Dogs went on to capture the Memorial Cup.

Welton was a part of the famed Wildcats 2006 President Cup Championship Team. Welton and the Cats came up short in the final that year to Patrick Roy’s Quebec Remparts, who ironically had drafted Welton.

Trenholm’s addition signifies Wildcats Director of Hockey Operations Ritchie Thibeau’s intentions presently and in the future. With all the moves made during this trade period, Thibeau’s intentions are incredibly calculated to build a team that could be a contender for the next two seasons.

Trenholm is a big piece to the Wildcats puzzle up front for the remainder of this season and next. His versatility and strong two-way game will not only solidify the Cats forward group, but it will also provide a balanced attack offensively and lockdown capability.

The Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia product is equally effective and efficient at both positions. He’s a throw back complete player who can excel in any situation. Connor Trenholm is a coach’s dream. Down a goal or up a goal late, Connor Trenholm is a player you want out there to get things done when it matters most.

There’s 17 years difference between Welton and Trenholm, but the impact the former standout defenceman had on his younger brother is truly immeasurable.

“Connor and I have a great relationship, but as brothers who are 17 years apart, I wasn’t around as much as I would’ve liked when he was growing up,” confessed Welton who had a stellar hockey career.

“I left to play in the QMJHL in Quebec City, less than two weeks after Connor and Cassidy were born.” 

“The time I did spend at home consisted of a lot of hours logged playing mini-sticks in the basement and kitchen, the latter of which wasn’t mom’s favourite,” joked Welton who went on to play four seasons at Acadia University after his time in the QMJHL. 

“Ever since I was little I always had a dream of playing in the QMJHL,” confessed Trenholm.

“Watching Nathan was one of the main reasons why. He had a tremendous impact on my hockey career,” said Trenholm. 

Connor always enjoyed watching my games, which I’d say helped inspire him to create his own hockey goals, but simply watching that much hockey, being in love with the game and studying it the way Connor still does is what has allowed him to excel throughout all different types of adversity,” explained Welton. 

Trenholm’s path to the QMJHL and the adversity he’s faced is well documented. The move to the Hub City at this point of his career and the family’s connection and history with the organization is truly a remarkable story.

Everything happens for a reason. Sometimes things come full circle. Connor Trenholm becoming a Moncton Wildcat is one of them.