The Sarnia Sting's first round pick in the OHL draft says it was an honour to be chosen by the Sting, adding he can't wait to get started.
Angus MacDonell, of the Toronto Marlboros U16 team, was selected 13th overall.
"It was craziness," MacDonell said of his draft day experience. "I had a couple of my family members over in my backyard. Everyone was going crazy (when I was picked). Just to hear my name called by such a great organization, it was awesome."
MacDonell was the captain of the Marlboros' U15 squad in 2019-20.
"I definitely like to lead by example," he said. "I'm a very vocal leader in the dressing room, and also on the ice. It's a big part of my game and of my personality as well. I like to play a hard, fast, and aggressive game. I like to control the play, I love to score goals, and make plays using my teammates."
MacDonell had 23 goals and nine assists for 32 points in 27 games played during the 2019-20 season. Like everyone else, he hasn't been able to suit up this year due to the COVID pandemic.
He admits it's been a challenging year.
"To know that everyone else in Ontario has been going through the same thing as me just gives me hope. I've been working out in the gym every day, trying to get myself better. That's what I've been doing to stay in shape and be ready for summer camp in August."
MacDonell said he's been playing lacrosse at the highest level for his whole life. He said it's really helped his hockey game.
"It's a huge part of my game," he said. "For offseason training, it's the best you can get. From eye-hand coordination, to physical play, it really reflects on my hockey playing style."
As for his new Sting teammates, MacDonell said they've already been making him feel right at home.
"There have been tons of guys reaching out, from Jacob Perreault to Ben Gaudreau. It's just been awesome. All of those guys telling me stories and introducing themselves, just gets me really excited to get to Sarnia and get going."
The 2021-22 Ontario Hockey League season will begin October 7, with players arriving in Sarnia for training camp September 4.