Justin Fontaine Returns Home for Alumni Golf Tournament

In anticipation for the Bonnyville Jr A Pontiacs’ Alumni Tournament this Saturday, Justin Fontaine, was golfing the Bonnyville Golf & Country Club (BGCC). Fontaine, who plays right-wing for the Minnesota Wild, says it feels good to be back home.

“It’s good to be back in Bonnyville, that’s for sure,” states the former Pontiac. “I got a chance to meet up with some buddies I don’t get to see much.” For the last three seasons Justin has called St. Paul, Minnesota home; but you can typically find him for a month or so of the off-season in his hometown, Bonnyville. If you’re really lucky, you’ll catch the hockey sensation on the greens at the BGCC. Leading up to the tournament, Fontaine is working on his short game, “I’ve been working on that. Hopefully, it’ll be good [for me]. That’s where you make your strokes in the game of golf.” Known to be a tad competitive, Fontaine says the texas scramble style tournament will be a chance for him to have some fun.

It’ll also be a great opportunity to meet up with some former teammates, including Edmonton Oiler, Mark Letestu. The two shared the ice for two seasons with the Pontiacs, 2004-05 and 2005-06. The pair also share an inspiring story of entering the NHL. Both players didn’t enter the typical way, via draft; rather each missed the draft, never gave up, worked hard and entered the big leagues later in their careers. “I took the longest road, probably possible,” laughs the 28 year old, who was just shy of 26 when he entered the league. “I had fun along the way. I learnt a lot of great things, and I think that’s how you round your game. It’s being able to absorb information and learn quick.”

It’s continuing to practice and absorb what coaches have for advice, at every level, and soak it in. – Justin Fontaine #14 Minnesota Wild

Fontaine says the best advice for players coming into the league, like local boy Brinson Pasichnuk who is favoured to be drafted this year, is to go in ready to learn. “It’s a totally different game. It’s higher-paced, if you’ve been around, the coaches will know.” Having faith in the coaches at any level is key, “you have to be able to buy into the system.” Fontaine gives props to Pasichnuk, “he’s a good skater, a good-skilled player; I think he’ll do well. It’s exciting to see how he does.”

Fontaine is grateful for the time he spent on the Pontiacs’ bench, “I was fortunate to go into a situation where we had a pretty offensively talented team. I played with [Jean-Marc] Beaudoin and [Mark] Letestu. I was on the power-play right away, so you’re handling the puck a lot. I think that helped me a lot coming out of Midgets.”

On Saturday Fontaine will be on the links for the big Alumni Tournament. If you would like to register for the game, contact Assistant Coach of the Pontiacs, Mark Jensen at 780.812.0519. The tournament offers the chance to golf with Fontaine and other hockey stars, Jon Kalinski and Mark Letestu. Justin will be available Friday at the Lakeland Credit Union in Bonnyville for a special autograph signing.

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