Antoine Barksdale on being drafted by the Aces, and his experience in the Junior Showcase

[CrookedAnt 78]

"Signing a minimum deal wasn't the worst deal it could ever had as I was a undrafted prospect from Italy, looking to make an impact in a sport that's vastly different from my home country. Make some extra dollars, and relax for a bit while I map out my route if hockey doesn't pan out was my plan, but I'm glad I was able to ice up, and hit the rinks. The Brigade was extremely welcoming, and we had a great bunch of scorers. Lotta guys that I won that tournament with ended up getting drafted ahead of me, and I couldn't be prouder of any of them. Dixon, St. Louis, Womp- they were all forces to winning. I contributed early on in the beginning, but as the tournament progressed.. I picked up some minor injuries from fights on the ice that held me back from playing to my full potential. I'm hopeful that after I rehab before the season that I'll come back stronger, and be an impactful force for the Aces.

 

The Aces have welcomed me with open arms. Taking me a bit lower than I'd like to have to go, but I understand the defense specialists were needed, and that you can't alway's get what you want. What I do want, is to be a dominant force on that ice night in, and night out. I want to show out, and bring a storied three-peat to this franchise. To be part of winning a championship like that.. well, man. It would just be special, you know? Something to cherish forever. I've already proven I'm capable of winning at a lower level, the Junior Showcase- so let's see where the VHLM brings us."

Edited September 5, 2022 by CrookedAnt