Miguël Tourigny’s family had a dream come true on Friday when the Montreal Canadiens drafted the homegrown Victoriaville defenseman in the 7th round with the 216th pick.
“The feeling of pride is indescribable,” said his father Stéphane Tourigny. We’re just beginning to see it. I was shocked. Montreal is the team I’ve followed since I was young.
The 5-foot-8, 170-pound defenseman was passed over by Bettman League teams for the first two years of his eligibility. The Tourigny family, who own a dairy farm with nearly 700 animals, didn’t travel to Montreal to avoid another disappointment.
Critics motivated Miguël to redouble his zeal, according to the father.
“Due to his size, Miguel always had to work,” he said. It was never easy for him. Ever since he was a peewee, he was told he wasn’t going to get very far in hockey. He’s always worked hard. He has unshakeable confidence. He’s really strong mentally.”
The 20-year-old’s mother, Valérie Desrochers, highlighted her son’s resilience.
“Her determination is her greatest strength,” she said. He has a temper at work. His journey will never be easy. He never gave up […]. We always had hope for him. When we heard his name, the dream finally became a reality.”
“The heart is bigger than the body”
According to those close to him, Miguël Tourigny has everything it takes to stand out despite the pressures in the Montreal market.
“Miguel runs under pressure,” remarked his father. The more important the match, the more he is in the game. He likes challenges. He has a purpose and he wants to show everyone that size doesn’t matter.”
“He still has energy and will continue to surprise you,” he predicted. His heart is bigger than his body. It looks like it has two engines as it never stops on the ice.
In addition to Miguël, who shines with 31 goals and 80 points, the Tourignys had the pleasure of seeing the youngest of the family, Jordan, a 16-year-old defender who wins the President’s Cup and plays an important role in Shawinigan cataracts.
“The two brothers are very close,” said Stéphane. They call each other after every game to give each other advice. What they have given us this year has exceeded our expectations. It was a milestone year for our family.”
Miguël Tourigny is taking part in the Canadian development camp until July 13th.