Alumni Update - Stephane Lenoski

May 19th 2008

Stephane Lenoski scored the game winning goal in the Bruins inaugural game, a 3-1 win over the visiting Kelowna Rockets on September 21st, 2006.

Stephane Lenoski spent his first three seasons in the Western Hockey League with the Brandon Wheat Kings. In the summer of 2006 the 20 year old native of Winnipeg manitoba was selected from the Wheat Kings by the Chilliwack Bruins in the WHL expansion draft. Lenoski was named first star in the Bruins inaugural game, a 3-1 win over the Kelowna Rockets. The jersey worn by Lenoski in that game now resides at the Hockey Hall of Fame. After 35 games with the Bruins in which he scored four times and added 16 assists, Lenoski was traded to the Spokane Chiefs. This past season, Lenoski was a member of the University of Manitoba Bisons.

Stephane, thanks for taking the time to talk to us. How was your first year of University?

It was great. University life is a big change from playing in the WHL, but it's been a lot of fun. My studies are going well, I actually had a year of University done prior to this season so I'm in my second year of studies. Right now I'm majoring in micro biology with an eye towards a career in medicine. It's a full schedule, we only play 28 regular season games but we practice every day so it's a busy life. Fortunately my parents kept me focused on my studies through high school and after while I was playing in the WHL. I feel I've really grown as a person this past year.

Having the WHL pay for your education obviously has to be a big help.

It's huge. I told my parents recently that I can't believe all I'm able to learn for free. To not have to take on any debt to get a top level education is awesome. I'm so glad I chose the WHL route. It's allowed me to continue to play a high level of hockey and get a free education.

The team you ended your WHL career with, the Spokane Chiefs will be playing for the Memorial Cup on Sunday, have you been following the tournament and are you surprised at all at their success this season?

I have been following it and no I'm not surprised at all. We were a good team last season and with so many returning players, I knew they would be a very good team.

Have you had a chance to visit your jersey at the Hockey Hall of Fame yet?

Not yet but some members of my family have. Right now it's part of the Hall of Fame exhibit at the Memorial Cup in Kitchener. It's definitely something I want to see.

Talk about your time in Chilliwack.

Even though I was only there for half a season, it was my favorite period of time in the WHL. It's a great city and the Bruins organization from top to bottom is first class. From the ownership to the coaches, they treat their players as people first. I still keep in touch with the coaching staff.

What's your fondest memory of your time here?

Scoring the winning goal and being named first star in the first game was something I'll never forget. I haven't scored many goals like that. This may sound strange because it happened after I was traded to Spokane but seeing the Bruins qualify for the playoffs was also a thrill. Ironically they clinched a playoff spot by beating us. I should also add that my billets Rick, Jackie and Austin Wellsby have become long life friends and contributed enormously to my happiness in Chilliwack. Also it was the first time since I was a kid that I was able to wear my favorite number ( no.12), which appears on the Chilliwack Bruins Jersey in the Hall of Fame!
 
Overall it was incredibly special to be part of the Bruins' first year in the WHL and I will always treasure it. Also, I think because it was an expansion team, we had great chemistry on and off the ice with the players and the coaching staff.