Zachary Massicotte has retained no scars from his short but fierce bout against Arber Xhekaj during last September’s rookie tournament. After a two-week break, the defender was able to start his professional career.
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We decided to hear from him. The Quebecer was kind enough to return to his duel on skates against the one who has become one of the Canadian fans’ favourites. One thing is certain: he has no regrets.
“That fight didn’t change the way I played,” said Zachary Massicotte. What is certain is that we cannot win them all (the battles).
“All players who fight know that they will win and they will lose something. I didn’t win the one against Xhekaj. Sometimes it happens and there’s nothing you can do about it.”
As he threw his gloves onto the ice, the former Rimouski Océanic and Shawinigan Cataractes full-back knew exactly who he was facing.
“It’s the little things that make a fight,” Massicotte said. As far as I remember he (Xhekaj) had injured one of our guys.
“You want to prove yourself in the training camp and I thought it was the right time. I think I did what I had to do. No, I have no regrets.”
Photo from the archive, Andréanne Lemire
Zachary Massicotte
support and respect
In the days following his matchup against Xhekaj, Massicotte received support from friends, family and former teammates.
Encouragement that did him good under the circumstances. Despite the brutal outcome of their clash, Massicotte respects Xhekaj.
“I knew he was tough. To see what he has achieved with the Canadian, apart from his struggles, is a beautiful story. He deserves everything that has happened to him with his efforts over the last few years.
“We don’t play the same style of play. On the other hand, I could take an example from his perseverance and the fact that he never gave up.”
All steering
After a stint with the Belleville Senators in the American League, Massicotte joined the Allen Americans in the ECHL. A normal move for a player in their first year as a pro.
“It’s an adjustment,” he added. I was prepared and had prepared for this type of situation (the many trips).
“I prepare well and take care of myself. The basics of hockey remain the same. The players are stronger and faster. You try to find techniques other than your physical strength.
He wants to be a regular in the American League next season.
“My style of play suits the American League well. I move the puck well and am difficult to play.
“Right now I’m good with Allen, one of the best organizations in the ECHL. They won several championships in the CHL and the ECHL. You are subscribed to the achievements and the infrastructures are of good quality.
Allen is a small town located 30 minutes from Dallas.
“There’s a lot to do,” said Massicotte. It’s a really beautiful city.”