Hockey star Leah Kosowski
«When the time came to choose a team captain, Leah Kosowski's name was unanimous among the coaches. Her work ethic is exceptional, on and off the ice. Her leadership has an effect on the other players. She's the one who holds them together. »
It's in those lofty terms that Benoit Fortin, head coach of the Lac St. Louis Grenadiers peewee AA squad, vaunted the merits of team captain Leah Kosowski at the 57th Quebec International Peewee hockey tournament.
The 12-year-old Lery resident has been playing great hockey since the start of the season. Her imposing physique of 5'8 », 130 pounds commands respect at her defence position. The only girl captain at the most important peerwee hockey competition in the world, Leah preaches by example.
« It's flattering to hear that I work hard. I was not really surprised to hear that I became captain, but all that is a team thing, » described Leah, sitting on the bus that transported the Grenadiers to the Ancient Capital.
Describing herself as a stay-at-home defenceman, the solid hockey star opens her eyes wide when she is question by Le Soleil on the subject of her participation in the Quebec tourney. « It's a fine challenge. Playing in Quebec's new arena for this huge tournament is exciting. I imagine there will lots of spectators there. I will give it everything I've got, » Leah assured.
During her first two games played in Quebec City, she did not deviate from her physical style. In the third period of the 5-1 defeat sustained by the Grenadiers at the hands of the Yamaska Missisquoi Vics last Wednesday at the Videtron Centre, Leah took a trip to the penalty box for having administered « an illegal check. » On Sunday, Leah was penalized for hooking in the 11th minute of the third frame during the Grenadiers' 1-0 shutout triumph over the Mortagne Black and Gold. It was a good penalty to take and happily goaltender Xavier Gauthier helped his teammates killed off the short-handed situation and the Grenadiers held onto their lead.
No, Leah Kosowski does not let herself get pounded at the feet of the boys.