Wheatley's Cameron Arquette is having a solid rookie season in the Ontario Junior Hockey League. The 16-year old is second among rookies in scoring in his age group with 10 goals and 28 points. "His hockey IQ is really good," said Leamington Flyers head coach Dale Mitchell. "He knows when to go, when not to go. He's fearless when he goes into the corners. He'll come out with pucks. He's got a lot of intangibles."
Those intangibles earned him a contract with the OHL's Kithchener Rangers in November. Since then the 5'8 forward has played 12 games in the OHL. "It puts a smile on my face every time I get called (by the Rangers)," said Arquette. "It’s very excited for me and my family. I definitely miss my coaches and teammates in Leamington, but every time I go to Kitchener it’s a great experience."
Arquette scored his first OHL against Flint on December 29th and was named the third star that night. He was in the lineup Tuesday when the Rangers dropped a 4-0 decision to the London Knights and says he has learned a lot during his time in Kitchener. "Everyone is so skilled and smart with the puck. This just gives me more motivation to keep working hard to make the next step."
Mitchell has noticed a difference. "He seems more confident with the puck. He's definitely going in the right direction."
Arquette credits the Flyers for his development and is grateful to be playing for both teams. "I have learned so much along the way through the coaches in Leamington," Arquette said. "All of my teammates have been great, making a great team environment and learning things from all the older guys."
He'll be in the Flyers' lineup Thursday when Milton visits Leamington for a pivotal West Conference matchup. The Flyers are trying to catch the second-place Menace, who have a three-point lead over Leamington. Puck drop is 7:10pm.
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