Quietly but surely, striker Xavier Parent is making a name for himself in the world of professional ice hockey.
The 22-year-old Quebecer will play his second season with the professionals in 2023-2024. He plays for the Utica Comets of the American Hockey League (AHL).
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Parent was never drafted and got his chance by signing a two-way contract in the AHL and ECHL. Last year he commuted between the two race tracks. That is now a thing of the past, because it has established itself as an important cog in the comets. So far this year, he has scored seven goals and added 10 assists for 17 points in 23 games.
The Lava native believes head coach Kevin Dineen's confidence in his abilities will allow him to succeed. He encourages him to pick up the pace and take risks.
“It makes a difference in the way I play,” said Parent, whose comments were reported by the AHL website. I find that I play with more confidence. I feel better on the ice, that makes a big difference.”
“It’s always a question of effort,” he added. If I work hard every day and at every opportunity, I know I will get things done.”
Good words for Stéphane Julien
Parent is a product of the Quebec Maritimes Hockey League and has worn the colors of the Halifax Mooseheads and the Sherbrooke Phoenix. From 2021 to 2022, at the age of 20, he was captain of the Estrie team.
This year he worked under head coach Stéphane Julien. Parent believes his teachings also enabled him to enter the professional world.
“He tried to prepare me for the next step. I think it's easier to learn from a man who has been in your shoes. I would say he was a tough coach, but it really helped me.”
Like Parent, Julien played five seasons in the QMJHL and did not attract National League recruiters. He then played one season in the ECHL before playing 15 seasons across Europe.