Falcons rookie fits right in
Jonah Boria has made a smooth transition to junior hockey.
The 17-year-old Grimsby native has been a solid contributor on the blueline for the St. Catharines Falcons in his first season after spending last year with the Niagara North Stars at the major midget level.
“I was an AP (associated player) for these guys last year so I always knew I could play at this level,” said Boria, a Grade 12 student at Blessed Trinity. “Going into it I felt confident about my chances but there is always that doubt but I was always confident in myself.”
Like most rookies, Boria’s biggest challenge was with the pace of play.
“That was the biggest thing for me to get used to, how fast the game was. Other than that, I feel like I’m tall enough — I’m not built — but I’m tall enough to look like I fit in. I just have to get bigger so I still have to work on that.
“It took me a couple of weeks to get used to the pace. Other than that I feel like I’ve adjusted pretty well and had a pretty good transition.”
Boria, who has two goals and 11 points in 28 games, is a mobile defenceman who likes to move the puck and rush it, something he hasn’t changed even though he is playing against older players with more experience.
“I’m going to keep playing the way I played last year,” he said. “Just because it’s a different team, a different level, doesn’t mean I’m going to change.
“I’m a puck-moving, rushing defenceman. I enjoy the way I play and it’s a fun way to play.”
Falcons coach Tyler Bielby has no qualms letting Boria be himself.
“This is young man who wants to get better and he’s willing to learn through trials and tribulations and by taking risks and by carrying the puck,” Bielby said. “I want him to become the player he wants to be. I don’t want him to simplify too much for him because he has a lot of upside.”
Boria isn’t bothered when he takes a chance and it doesn’t work out.
“At the end of the day you have to live with the mistake you made,” he said. “You think about what you did wrong but also what can you do to make it better.”
Bielby appreciates Boria’s attitude and athleticism.
“He’s brought a lot of character and a lot of diversity in our room in what brings to the table, whether it’s his foot speed and how he can carry the puck,” he said. “He’s played some games as a forward for us while we’ve worked through some tough times with injuries and suspensions. You need a guy like that on every team and we’re fortunate to have him.”
Boria is also a talented soccer player who plans to suit up for Ancaster at the U21 level this season.
“I’m not trying to think if I have to choose one or the other, I’m just playing until someone literally forces my hand. I don’t plan on choosing one or the other,” he said.
Boria feels being a dual-sport athlete is an advantage.
“It always good to play two sports,” he said. “Multi-sport athletes are some of the best. I believe I am getting a lot out of it. I’m still keeping up with my work ethic, I’m not sitting around.
“I enjoy it. It gives me some time away from the one sport and then it always makes you realize how much fun you have with that one sport.”
Boria collected an assist Wednesday as the Falcons topped the Buffalo Regals 4-1.
Brady Caruso, Nick Volpatti, Michael Angrilli and Xavier Drummond scored.
Blair Coffin made 30 saves for the win.
The Falcons host Hamilton Friday.
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