Local Clayton Park Boy One Step Closer to Hockey Dream

Ever since his uncle introduced him to the game of hockey by taking him to a Halifax Raiders game at a young age, Nicholas Corrigan was hooked. "Seeing the speed and skill of the players at this level was mind-blowing, and I knew that I immediately needed to be a part of that world." We caught up with Nick at his childhood home, an older apartment in the Clayton Park neighborhood. "Growing up here was tough, I'm not going to sugarcoat it. Lots of societal issues with violence and drug use. Now, the population seems to be expanding and more property is being built here, so its' been an amazing shift to watch." Nicholas still lives with his mom Nancy; he tries to support her in any way he can as she grows older. He grew up without a father ("I don't even know who he is or where he is,") but joining his local hockey team with a little bit of financial support from the community filled in that role for him.

Paul Fleece was the coach of Nicholas' team, and while he is no longer a member of the local leagues, he volunteers and has seen Nick's progress for many years. "I always knew that kid was going to go somewhere. He always worked as hard as he could to help the team, and I think his teammates appreciated that." Paul explains. "Nick just wanted to be faster than everyone, always wanted to race." He chuckles. "I'm proud of him."

Nick's work ethic and skill seem to have placed him in a good spot, as various teams in the SMJHL have approached him ahead of this year's draft. He laughs and blushes as we bring it up to him. "Yeah, it's pretty crazy. I'm just so humbled that these people are even talking to me. I'm blessed regardless of what happens during the draft. Just happy to be seen in such a positive light." Only tomorrow will tell of Nick's situation, as you can catch the SMJHL draft live on Sunday November 17 at 8pm.

First article about the draft and first article overall. 347 words.