Former Rapids’ standout Daoust bringing Memorial Cup to Noelville

SUDBURY, Ont. – Former Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League and French River Rapids standout Philippe Daoust is returning to Noelville Arena on Friday, August 12, and will have the Memorial Cup with him.

Daoust, who won the Memorial Cup back in late June as a member of the Quebec Junior Hockey League’s Saint John Sea Dogs, will be at Noelville Arena next week, between 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., with the trophy, to meet fans, sign autographs and have photos taken during that time period.

The Barrie, Ont., product made his Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League debut with French River back during the 2018-19 campaign where he paced all NOJHL rookies in offensive production, while playing at over a point-per-game clip.

In all, he registered 59 points, in 56 outings, for the Rapids that season on 20 goals and 39 assists. His helper total also led all league rookies, as did his three shorthanded tallies, while finishing ninth overall in NOJHL scoring, among all skaters.

Recording 16 multi-point contests while with French River, he also had a 10-game point streak mid-season and wrapped up his year by contributing offensively in each of his final eight match-ups.

Moving on to the QMJHL, Daoust went on to be selected by the Ottawa Senators in the sixth round, 158th overall, in the 2020 NHL Draft.

Then in March of this year, he signed a three-year entry-level contract with Ottawa.

“It’s tremendous that Phil hasn’t forgot his roots, beginning his junior career here as a member of the Rapids, and is graciously sharing some of his time with the Memorial Cup with us and the fans,” said French River team president, head coach and general manager Paul Frustaglio.

Adding to Frustaglio’s sentiments, NOJHL commissioner Robert Mazzuca offered: “This will be a great opportunity for the fans to catch up with a former Rapids’ star player as well as get a first-hand look at one of the most iconic trophies in hockey, the Memorial Cup.”

“His success is yet another example of a talented NOJHL alumnus, who showcased his skill-set in our league, before continuing their stellar play and earning success at the next level, including being drafted and signing a National Hockey League contract,” summarized Mazzuca.

For more information, visit frenchriverrapids.com.

Photo credit: Vincent Ethier/CHL