Matt Jacques is one of the most talented players to man the Lakehead Thunderwolves blue line in seven seasons of the teams existence. The Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta native could supply offense, direct the Lakehead powerplay, and play solid defence.
In his rookie season with the Wolves in 2005-06; Jacques scored 6 goals and added 10 assists and helped lead the Wolves to their only Queens Cup Championship and a berth at the CIS national championships where they took the silver medal. For his stellar play in his freshman season; Jacques was named to the OUA All Rookie Team.
Jacques second season was his best offensively for the Wolves. He scored 10 goals and notched 21 assists for 31 points and was named an OUA Second Team All Star. This past season saw Jacques post 2 goals and 9 assists as the Wolves posted their best ever regular season record.
Lakehead Head Coach Don McKee said Jacques leaves Lakehead a leader on and off the ice. In three years with the Thunderwolves, Matt proved to be a valuable offensive defenseman, who was key in the team's power play performances. Matt was a team player who contributed both on and off the ice to make the program a success. As Matt moves into the business world, he will be an instant success. He is a sound thinker, a confident performer who relates extremely well to people of all ages and walks of life. We wish Matt all the best as he turns to a new page in his life.
Jacques leaves Wolves Hockey as the teams No. 3 All Time Scoring defenseman (behind Erik Lodge and Mike Jacobsen); in only three years of eligibility. He is planning to move to Ottawa with his H. B. Commerce degree to begin a new career in marketing.
Name: Matt Jacques
Hometown: Fort Saskatchewan, AB
Program: H.B. Commerce
Sport: Mens Hockey
Years as a varsity Lakehead Athlete: 2005-08
Lakehead/OUA/CIS Honours:
1) Lakehead Thunderwolves Mens Hockey Rookie of the Year
2) OUA All Rookie Team 2005-06
3) OUA Second Team All-Star 2006-07
Questions Section:
1)What are your fondest memories as a Lakehead varsity athlete?
Jacques: Winning the Queens Cup in Thunder Bay
2)What do you think was your top athletic achievement or performance as a Lakehead Varsity Athlete?
Jacques: Playoffs my first year at Lakehead. It was a great run due to the fact that nobody expected us to do anything, and I was able to contribute every step of the way.
3)What did being a Lakehead varsity athlete teach you that will help you in your life after university?
Jacques: How to deal with time management with work and personal life.
4)What are your plans after graduating from Lakehead?
Jacques: Moving to Ottawa to start a career in Marketing