This week, the Thursday Thunder Player of the Week is 21-year-old Tanner Chapman.
Born and raised in Airdrie, Chapman has been playing hockey in Airdrie for most of his life. He spent his younger years playing for teams like the Airdrie Lightning and U15 AA, AC Avalanche U16 AAA and Airdrie CFR Bisons U18 AAA.
Shaun Guest, the General Manager of the Airdrie Techmation Thunder stated that Chapman doesn't know how to go half-speed, he is engaged in every shift he takes. His leadership on and off the ice is incredible and the Thunder are very proud of him so far this season.
"This year, I came in with a new mindset that we're all going to be one whole unit," stated Chapman. "A lot of that is talking with the boys and making sure everyone feels welcome and at home."
While Chapman is not happy about not winning any of the games this past weekend, he is very thankful for being selected as the player of the week.
Last Friday, the Thunder had their home opener against the Carstar Okotoks Bison and lost 8-4, Chapman did have a goal in the game. Saturday was not any better as they lost 4-0 to the Rocky Rams.
This Friday, the Medicine Hat Cubs make the trip to the Ron Ebbesen Arena to take on the Airdrie Thunder for an 8 p.m. puck drop. On Saturday the Thunder head to Cochrane to take on the Generals. The game starts at 7:15 p.m. and will be played at the Spray Lake Sawmills Centre.
"Tough teams, but I think the boys are starting to gel together, so I think you're pretty antsy to get after it."
When it comes to goals for the season, with a young team, Chapman hopes to see the team try and make the playoffs and make a run from there.
"I hope I can just do my job and put more pucks in the net than getting scored on."
With this being his final year of junior hockey, Chapman stated he plans on helping out as much as he can off the ice while continuing to work and make a living.
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