NLSA Molson Challenge Cup



Saturday, June 28, 2008

Another son of a native Laurentian making it big !! by Gord Dunphy

Robert Slaney and his Dad, Val

Robert Slaney, son of Val Slaney (Spinny) 0f Upper Island Cove is sure making his presence felt in the Canadian sports scene. Presently, St. John's are playing host to the World Jr. Ballhockey Championships and Robert Slaney is the captain of that squad. Last evening I had the opportunity to watch Robert perform and speak to his dad at the game. Val told me that,"Robert is living his life to the fullest and the family are very proud parents of their son's accomplishments." Then I said to Val, "It is too bad that you weren't still living in St.Lawrence because, Robert with his athleticism,could have been another strong Laurentian soccer player." He just smiled. Val, himself played soccer growing up in St.Lawrence with the Laurentian's and was very good at it, kind of a wild character. He has two nephews, Mike Howlett and Sheldon Slaney, currently playing on the Laurentian's team. So you can definitely see that soccer and sports in general is in this families genes.

Things just don't stop here for Robert Slaney. He is presently a member of the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. Slaney was the recipient of the Marcel-Robert Trophy, which honours the QMJHL's Scholastic Player of the Year. This 20-year old Business Administration student at Cape Breton University maintained an 87% academic average. The left winger recorded 55 points (26 goals and 29 assists) in 64 games as a member of the QMJHL’s Screaming Eagles. Robert Slaney also won the Molson Canadian, Guy Lafleur Awards of Excellence for 2007-08. When I spoke to Val and asked him about his son's chances of making the NHL, he told me, "Making the NHL is no easy task" but from what I can see, when I saw him play against the St.John's Fog Devils, this kid is headed in the right direction.He has good skills,the smarts, great family support and a terrific attitude. If there is one thing I can assure him is that the town of St .Lawrence is definitely supporting him in his dreams and so is the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. I need not say no more- just ask Daniel Cleary, Brad Gushue and I'm sure the list can go on.
Good luck Robert!










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