Gouin part of Lakers strong start to 2025/2026
The early success of the Fort Frances Lakers can be perhaps tied to chemistry.
With just four players on the roster that are playing their final year of junior hockey, Captain Pierce Gouin (International Falls, Minnesota) feels that the younger players have adapted to the rigors of junior hockey in a timely manner.
“We’ve been working really hard on building chemistry both on and off the ice, and I believe that it shows in our performance,” says Gouin. “We’ve had different challenges to overcome, but each game has presented an opportunity for us to improve and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished so far.”
“This year has been all about teamwork and supporting each other through difficult situations. I think it’s important to have a team that will do anything for one another and that is what we have this year.”
The other three graduating players on the Lakers are forwards Daniel Tokariwski (Winnipeg, Manitoba) and Nickolas Fagnilli (Kenora, Ontario) along with defenceman Nolan Barker (Hermantown, Minnesota).
Gouin notes it a huge honour to be the captain of the Lakers in his final season.
“I’ve tried to embrace the role and set the standard every day,” he added. “I wouldn’t say I’ve treated this year any differently, but I’ve definitely been more intentional about my leadership just by communicating with the boys, staying level in tough moments, and just making sure the team is always moving in the right direction.”
Last season, the Lakers hit one of their highest regular season win totals since the 2019/2020 season with 20. Heading into 2026 the franchise already has 18 victories.
With hockey being a team game, Gouin had a hard time singling out players that have performed well. He did acknowledge the efforts of goaltenders Nolan Koethler and Brady Cates along with forward Dax Laplante.
“Our goalies have truly been the backbone for us this year. They give us a chance to win every night, and that consistency has been huge for the team,” mentioned Gouin. “Our young players have stepped up in a big way. Being only 16 years old, playing junior hockey and fitting right into the competition is something that you don’t see every day. Dax Laplante has done that and is one of the hardest workers on the ice. He’s been getting better every day that I see him perform.”
The Lakers have also had to adjust to a new but familiar face behind the bench. Luke Judson was promoted to Head Coach and General last Spring following the resignation of Tyler Miller.
Gouin notes that Judson has been a big supporter of his since his first game as a Laker.
“I’m grateful for all the support he’s given me and the team. He creates an environment where you want to work hard and win. Even on our workday Mondays, when none of the boys are really jumping out of bed to be there. But he still gets a good effort out of us on those days,” Gouin added.
Gouin made his debut with the Laker franchise on September 22, 2023 against the Dryden GM Ice Dogs. Following a brief stint with the Virden Oil Capitals of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL) in September 2024, he came back to the Lakers to finish the season.
Game number 100 in a Laker uniform occurred on October 31, 2025 against the Ice Dogs.
“I know that I’m only going to be able to play junior hockey once in my life, so I try to make every moment count,” reflected Gouin. “I didn’t realize it would go by this fast from playing my first game, to playing my 100th game. I’m thankful for all of the memories that have been made over these last three years.”
Gouin is exploring college hockey opportunities in 2026/2027.
JANUARY 2026 SCHEDULE
Friday 9th vs. Thunder Bay North Stars
Saturday 10th vs. Thunder Bay North Stars
Tuesday 13th @ Kam River Fighting Walleye
Tuesday 20th vs. Ironwood Lumberjacks
Friday 23rd vs. Kam River Fighting Walleye
Saturday 24th vs. Kam River Fighting Walleye
Tuesday 27th @ Thunder Bay North Stars
Friday 30th @ Ironwood Lumberjacks
Saturday 31st @ Ironwood Lumberjacks
