It was a glorious homecoming for Cade McNelly who took to the ice at Rogers Place in Edmonton Nov. 2 to help the Seattle Thunderbirds defeat the Edmonton Oil Kings 3-1.
Friends and family made the trek from Westlock to watch the 16-year-old rookie Western Hockey League defender during the Thunderbirds’ fourth stop on a five-game tour throughout Alberta.
“Thanks to everyone who came out to support me,” said McNelly, who was worn-out following playing back-to-back games. “I thought I played well during my shifts.”
The victory was the fourth in a row for the Thunderbirds, who now sit at 9-5-1-1, which good enough for third in the WHL’s U.S. Division.
The 6’2”, 178-pound defenceman said he was starting to settle in to life in Seattle, but admits there are some days he misses Westlock.
“Seattle is a lot of fun,” he said. “I’ve been doing the same stuff as usual: wake up, go to school, then practice at the rink the rest of the day.”
While he loves playing in the WHL, McNelly admitted he’s faced a steep learning curve.
“It took me a couple of games to get used to the pace, but it’s a lot easier to play and more fun now. I just need some more experience and then hopefully I can play more.”
Watching from the stands was his proud father Tate, who saw the growth in Cade’s game almost immediately.
“It was good, we haven’t seen him play in a couple months,” said Tate. “It’s neat to see how he’s adjusted. He’s getting better at picking the spots where he gets the big body check.”
He was fortunate enough to be able to watch his son play two games in a row, as he was also in attendance for a game in Red Deer Nov. 1.
Tate added that the Thunderbirds were really good about getting parents some time with their kids, noting that since Cade is on the road with the team, it’s hard to get the family together.
For Cade, it’s all hard work from here.
Holding a coveted spot on the roster is an accomplishment in itself, but Tate noted that Cade will have to keep fighting to keep his career progressing.
“He’s got an opportunity,” said Tate. “A lot of things have to happen for him to make a professional career out of hockey. He’s got to keep playing well all the time to keep in the lineup.”
Tate said he told Cade to enjoy his time, but to make sure he keeps his head in the game.
“We spoke with a scout at the game and he told us that in junior and professional hockey, you’re playing for your job non-stop, because there’s always somebody trying to take that spot,” he said.
“He’s got to play every shift like it was his last.”
