Travis Francoeur spent his youth playing hockey on Lake Windermere and in Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena.

He grew up watching the Columbia Valley Rockies and hoped one day to be a part of the team.

This year Travis has cracked the lineup and now gets the chance to play in front of his family and friends.

This is a rare benefit for the player who has been skating for as long as he can remember.

Travis said it is great getting this chance to be a home-grown player for the Rockies.

He said, “It is good to see people come out and support us. They come out and support the team and all the local guys.”

One of the great challenges for Travis has been the speed and pace of this level of hockey.

This has inspired him to train all year round and work harder in the off-season.

The league itself has impressed the 18-year-old and he feels the competitive nature of the league is beneficial for both the players and the spectators who come to watch the games.

Travis also has been influenced by his head coach Rob Rice. He is impressed by Rob because of his ability to teach players.

Rob is willing to work with players to help them through problems they are having on the ice in a patient manner.

Travis hopes to have a solid year defensively and to be a force in his own zone.

His favourite player in the NHL is not surprisingly Sheldon Souray who plays a strong defensive game.

He also hopes the team will be in the playoffs so they can take a run at a championship.

When asked about his future in hockey Travis said he is only looking at where he is currently and not thinking too hard about anything beyond that, for now.

After graduation Travis started working at CXL Construction in Invermere and is now balancing both his job and hockey.

He said, “I get up early in the morning, go to work and then back for hockey. I am either at work, on the ice or in bed.”

The company has been very helpful in making time for Travis to play hockey and go on road trips with the team.

Between his parents, employer and coaches Travis is getting a bundle of support during a busy period of his life. This gives him a chance to continue playing the sport he loves in the building he learned how to play in.