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IN THIS ISSUE Family Reunions & Fresh Beginnings for Jakob Chychrun
BRIANNE JENNER
Ottawa Senators defenceman Jakob Chychrun sits down with Faces to talk about family, health, and a fresh new NHL start in a city that’s always been like a second home.
The Wealth Creation Formula
Entrepreneur and sales expert Grant Cardone, renowned for his motivational prowess and real estate acumen, sits down with Faces to discuss his latest book, it’s timeliness, and specific relevance to Canadians.
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GRANT CARDONE
FASHION
Team Canada Star Brianne Jenner “Can’t Wait to Represent Ottawa” in New Professional Women’s Hockey League
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Egor Sokolov
GEORGE PLAGAKIS & LUIS MOLINA How two Ottawa entrepreneurs completely reimagined what fast casual dining means, offering gourmet mediterranean fare in a franchise model Lua exeter - Tat that’s set on expansion. ecaborpos mi, lorum Page 56 in, tem fuga. Um nusam eiunt aut late mintiatin penatum volorum nonse.
LOCKED ON SENATORS PODCAST How Brandon Pillar and Ross Levitan have found success in the competitive world of sports podcasting. Page 46
Phil Weaver After thirty years in high tech, Ottawa native Phil Weaver has made his mark in the beauty industry, offering salon services for men and women that are truly customer-focused.
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CONTENT
FACES
IN THIS ISSUE
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Here’s When Ottawa Has It’s Worst Rush Hour, & other ways that Ottawa has made headlines recently.
SPACES WE LOVE
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Unbeatable Brunches - Three brunch spots that make mornings even better.
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STYLE
Best in Burgers - In Octo-
ber, we asked Ottawa to name their go-to spot when it’s time to enjoy a North American staple, the hamburger. Here are 3 of the top recommendations.
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Three Style Hacks To Make You Look Taller - Here’s how to radiate poise and stature instantly.
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Exploring the Straight Razor Shave - Here’s why the straight razor shave is one of the closest shaves you can get, and what you can expect.
EXPLORE OTTAWA
Here’s where to go in the month of November.
ISSUE 82
MAGAZINE
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42 SPACES WE LOVE We explore three interiors that inspire us with their distinctive design.
- K A N A T A -
Noun. Italian for ‘brothers’
PIZZA+PASTA+VINO in Kanata's Signature Centre
EXCEPTIONAL, AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE IN A RELAXED, CONTEMPORARY ATMOSPHERE. TAKEOUT AVAILABLE by phone only
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499 T er r y F o x D r i ve Ot t a w a , O n t a r io K2T 1H 7
November / December 2023 - Volume 82 FIND FACES Faces Magazine is distributed bi-monthly and offered free at select locations across Ottawa and in cities across Eastern Ontario. Full issues are also available online. Faces Magazine is a non-traditional print medium with a strong brand presence on social media.
facesmag.ca @facesottawa
Editor In Chief Evan Childerhose Publisher Justin MacKinnon Hank’s Paw Publishing (A Division of 8624771 Canada Inc.) Creative Director Catheryn Wheeler Accounting/Finance Linda Zhang Office Manager Jonathan Rock
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Steve Warne Dan Lalande Duve Dagher Eric Lightfoot Alex Feeney Jordan Palleck Courtney Wheeler Corey Stone Christopher Lord Alex Grant Molly Burke Garry Thom Mark Steele Ryan Bova Eric MacIsaac Kenzie Murphy Jamie Brown Robert Smith Kate Wright Meaghan Vincent Guillaume Dubois Connor Khonick Todd Hamilton Marc Paul Lindsay Risto Morris Miller Hugo Tremblay
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Cover: Kerbens Boisette Greg (Freshh) Anderson Nicolai Gregory Sean Sisk Jessica Thomas Lenz Studio Chris Tanouye John E. Sokolowski Jana Chytilova David Maman Andre Ringuette Connor Armstrong Taylor Condon Peter Wright Yana Klaiz
November Where To Go In
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Crave Food & Wine Festival, Presented by Richcraft November 10 - 11, Shaw Centre
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Daylight Savings Time Ends Clocks fall back one hour on November 5th.
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National Remembrance Day Ceremony
IN CONCERT
Kiss End of the Road World Tour November 21 @ CTC
Jonas Brothers 5 Albums. 1 Night. November 29 @ CTC 14
FACES MAGAZINE
23-25 The Museum’s Christmas Market & Tree Lighting November 23rd - 25th Mueseum of History
Explore Ottawa’s best food, drinks, and company at this multi-day festival, featuring world-renowned chefs and mixologists, masterclasses, professional speakers, tastings, and entertainment that will leave you craving more. This culinary exhibit invites you to play with food, wine, spirits, and beers through several imaginative spaces. Ottawa Christmas Market Opens
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C
JAKOB
HYCHRUN Family Reunions &Fresh Beginnings
Ottawa Senators star Jakob Chychrun may have been raised in South Florida, but the Nation’s Capital has always been a special place, like a second home. By Steve Warne
H
is father, Jeff, was raised here en route to his own NHL career. His grandfather, John, still lives here, as does Jakob’s sister, Taylor.
So while the deal has worked out very nicely for Chychrun and his family, it certainly wasn’t easy to leave behind friends, teammates and the only NHL organization he’d known for seven years.
And they all spent their summers here together at the family cottage on White Lake.
“It was definitely a tough time,” Chychrun said. “For me, personally, I felt like I went through about three different sorts of rebuilds in Arizona in my time there. And I think there just comes a point where you start to get discouraged. It’s not easy going through that.
Back in March, after a year and half of speculation, Arizona finally traded Chychrun to the Ottawa Senators, who’d been in the market for a high end, top four defenceman for a long time. To get one with such deep family connections to Ottawa was a fantastic bonus. It certainly won’t hurt the Senators when they begin to talk about an extension next summer.
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C There just comes a time where you’re only human and you want to win so badly in this league. You realize how short of a career you really have and how few opportunities you have to win.
“And so that’s really ultimately what it came down to for me. And it was a very, very difficult decision. I remember those conversations with my loved ones at my home like it was yesterday. We were writing down the pros and cons and really doing our due diligence on what the right decision was going to be for me.
“We did not take that decision lightly. And I think we ultimately decided that it would be best for me to try to get moved on. It definitely took a while, but I’m very happy with where I’m at now and looking forward to the future here in Ottawa.”
One of the things that Chychrun most looked forward to about playing for Ottawa was that his grandfather would be able to see him play more often.
“Yeah, that’s something that’s always been on my mind,” Chychrun said. “Being able to play in a place where it’s easier for him specifically to be able to come watch my games. Because he’s somebody that I’ve just loved dearly since I was a little kid. He’s been one of my favorite people on this planet. “I’d see him at our cottage every summer of my life. I looked forward to every opportunity to see Dido (Ukrainian for grandfather) and he was either coming to the cottage or we were going into town to see him. And every Christmas time, we’d stay at their place in town and have Christmas with them. “But, since I started playing in the NHL, he really hasn’t been able to see too much of me playing. Maybe once or twice a year when we were in Ottawa, Montreal or Toronto, basically. And the time change was very hard too for the east coasters to stay up late and watch the West Coast games.
“So, it’s been really awesome. I mean, these are memories that I’m not going to take for granted. And every night I’m excited to have the opportunity to have lots of family in the seats and play in front of them.” Chychrun is also excited about suiting up for a team that’s on the cusp of something very good.
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In terms of both talent and camaraderie, how would you describe the Ottawa Senators? Man, it’s special. I really believe that we’re a team that doesn’t have any holes. From forward to defense to goalies, we’re a team that is dangerous. It’s a matter of us taking it one day at a time and starting to develop that mindset that we are a team that can win. Internally, we have very strong beliefs on what we can accomplish. It seems like a really tight locker room with people that genuinely get along. Yeah, it really is. I’ve been pretty lucky. In Arizona, we had pretty good groups too. But this group here is unbelievable. I mean, I couldn’t believe it when I got here. The entire team is so young. And then you got a few guys like Claude Giroux, Travis Hamonic and Joonas Korpisalo. They have a great veteran presence. But even those guys, they act like kids still. And they want to be a part of this young core. Claude Giroux is one of the most competitive guys I’ve ever met. And he’s still like a kid. He always wants to be up against the young guys. It’s just such a great integration of young talent and guys who have experience in the playoffs. And so I think it’s a great thing we’ve got going here. It’s a tight knit room for sure.
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These are memories that I'm not going to take for granted. And every night, I'm excited to have the
opportunity
to have lots of family in the seats and play in front of them.
I
n your first home game, you were on the bench, and the crowd went bananas when they put the Jumbotron camera on you as if to say, “Welcome to Ottawa.” And you started clapping along as well, hyping them up further. What was that moment like?
That was honestly one of the coolest moments I think I’ve had in the NHL. I remember going out for my first shift and the place just started to go kind of crazy. I didn’t realize it was for me. I was just focused on my first shift. And then I scored a goal. And then late in the third, we were up by three goals and I guess the camera went on me and the place was going crazy. It was one of those moments you get caught in. I definitely had a few of the ex-teammates reaching out for that one, giving me a hard time. Would you say that was out of character for you? Not really. I’m not shy to do something like that here and there, if the time’s right, and just kind of embrace the moment, embrace the situation. I think you have to do that at times and live a little. I think, at times, as hockey players, we can kind of be like robots and not really show any personality. I think it’s nice to be unique and be your own person. I think that helps grow the game as well.
”
You’ve had a lot of injuries in your young career.
I’ve definitely had some bad bounces. My first injury came during training in Arnprior when I stepped in a pothole while running hills. And another one in a game against Calgary, I was slew footed by Michael Frolik. You can see that one on YouTube. And another one I had my arm extended and someone basically skated through my wrist. It’s mostly just been bad luck. There’s really nothing you can do about those types of injuries. You have a famously huge commitment to health and wellness. Where did that begin for you? My pops obviously played in the NHL, and so he’s really done a great job after his career, keeping up with his health and fitness. He works out pretty much daily and I think kind of just seeing him as a kid, still going to the gym and working hard was definitely an inspiration for me. And I remember there was one summer when I was maybe 10 years old where I met Mark Slater. He trained my dad and a lot of NHLers locally here in Ottawa. Mark is like family and he gave me kind of a sit down and chat and laid out a workout regimen for me. I remember just loving it and kind of diving headfirst into it.
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You obviously did a couple of Sarnia winters in junior. But beyond that, your life has been in Florida and Arizona. Are you ready for an Ottawa winter? I don’t know if I am. I had two years in Sarnia and one in Toronto before Sarnia. But I know Ottawa winters are on another level. So we’ll see. I’m not thrilled about it, but I’ve wanted a white Christmas forever. But since I got to Arizona, there just wasn’t enough time during the NHL break to leave and come up here. But like every Christmas in my dad’s life, he never missed coming home, even when he played. Until I went to Arizona, that was the first Christmas he missed coming back home here to Ottawa. So I can’t wait to be able to have that time here with the family at Christmas time and be at home with them. But yeah, winter will be an adjustment for sure. Time for the lightning round. What are some of your hobbies away from the game? I love golf. And I love to fish. Those are my two biggest hobbies. What kind of fisherman are you? Bass. I’ve got a bass boat here in town at the cottage on White Lake. I love to get out on that. I could kill about eight hours on that boat. It’s a really nice time for me to just unwind and get my head in a good place and away from all the noise and just kind of be a boy having some fun on the water. Do you have a nickname? Chick. My dad was Chick as well. Guys call me Chick, Chicky, Chich, Chichy, Chicky Baby, Little Chick. I’ve got a lot of variations of Chick. What’s your dream car? Wow. I’m a big car guy. I grew up in South Florida, so I’ve seen just about all the cars that there are out there and it kind of made me want to have a collection one day. I don’t know if I could even pick one. I mean, if I had to, I love the Ferrari 488 Pista. The Ferrari 488 is a beautiful model, and then the Pista model is like an elevated version that’s even more ludicrous. I just love it.
What’s been your favourite vacation spot so far? I’m usually a tropical vacation kind of guy. But I also love Copenhagen, Denmark. We have close family friends in Copenhagen that my mom goes way back with. And they’re very successful. They own a few hotels there and some very different businesses in downtown Copenhagen. So whenever we go visit them, it’s always great memories and special times. It’s actually where my dad proposed to my mom at Tivoli Gardens. What would you be if you weren’t a hockey player? Oh, man. Baseball was kind of another sport I really excelled at and I think I probably could have taken that to a high level as well. I had a really good bat. I was a first baseman. So it’s hard for me not to say baseball. What’s the last song you downloaded? I’m a big Morgan Wallen guy. Did you go to his Ottawa show in September? We did. It was my third time seeing him. He’s the best. Dancing. Love or hate it? I wish I loved it, but I can’t do it. So I hate it. Who’s your best friend in the NHL? Christian Dvorak. He lived with me for one year in Arizona. We were there kind of right from the start together. I’ve never been more sad to see a teammate get traded. That was a really tough one for me. But all the guys, Keller, Schmaltz, Christian Fischer, and all the boys in Arizona, and now here in Ottawa too. It’s a great group. Are you a social media guy? Yeah, I am. Twitter is just nonsense so I deleted that a while ago. I’ll still pop on if I gotta post something here or there. I’m on Instagram and trying not to be on that as much because it can kind of suck you in.
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"I'm looking forward to the future here in Ottawa.”
Tell us about your new partnership with the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. Yeah, I'm very excited about that. It's really cool being a Florida boy growing up there. Obviously their headquarters are there and the resort they built there is incredible. That’s a brand I've been familiar with since I was a kid. And I didn't really know how world renowned they were. They're in 70 different countries now with 270 locations, I believe. They win awards every year for not only hospitality, but also their workplace environment that they create for their employees. It's second to none. I think they really love to give back in all the communities they're in. So I think it's going to be a great thing for Ottawa and I'm really proud to partner with them.
It figures that he’d be a good fit for a casino partnership because when the Senators managed to pull off the trade to acquire a player like Jakob Chychrun, they definitely hit the jackpot.
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the LATEST Here’s what’s new in the world surprising finds.
OTTAWA’S WORST RUSH HOUR IS EVERY THURSDAY FROM 4PM TO 5PM 2022’s TomTom Traffic Index ranked Ottawa as the 8th worst commute in Canada due to traffic congestion. On average, says the study, a 10-kilometre drive in Ottawa will take you 14 minutes.
GIOVANNI’S CELBRATES 40 YEARS AS A LANDMARK OF LITTLE ITALY The charming ambiance and elegant interior of Giovanni’s are like none other in Ottawa. Giovanni’s opened in 1983, when founder Lisa Cocco Pollastrini and her late husband Giuseppe Pollastrini moved to Canada from their native Italian regions of Pescara and Tuscany. Now run by second-generation owner Nino Cocco Pollastrini, with the help of his two children Nino and Lisa, Giovanni’s is Ottawa’s most prominent fine-dining restaurant that has welcomed hundreds of celebrities, professional athletes, and 26
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Toronto’s 10-km commute averaged 22 minutes in comparison.
business owners from around the world during their time in The Capital. It remains a bustling spot for business lunches, dinners, and gatherings, with a robust selection of fresh seafood, meats, pasta, wine, and authentic Italian desserts.
The study found that the Capital’s peak traffic time was Thursday from 4 to 5 pm, when that same distance would take you 18 minutes and 20 seconds. Within the study’s global index, Ottawa was ranked as the 210th worst city in the world for traffic congestion.
OTTAWA WAS THE 5TH MOST EXPENSIVE CANADIAN CITY TO LIVE IN IN 2023 In a 2023 study published by CCG (CreditCardGenious.ca), Ottawa was named the 5th most expensive Canadian city to live in when comparing the cost of housing and the average median salary. CCG’s study compared the average cost of buying a home, renting a 1 bedroom apartment, and the estimated monthly cost of living against each city’s median household income after tax. The result was predictable: Vancouver and Toronto battled it out for the top 2 spots, followed by two cities whose housing markets are much more expensive than Ottawa: Hamilton and Victoria. According to the report, the least expensive Canadian city to live in in 2023 is Regina. Toronto earned its highest scores in the areas of acceptance and language, and ranked highly in happiness, too. Montreal was almost identical in scoring across all criteria, but scored higher than TO in Community Respect, and much lower in the friendliness of frontline workers.
M A G A Z I N E
O T T A W A
G Grant
F A C E S
C ardone Ca
rdone
New Book The Wealth Creation Formula
Grant Cardone, a renowned figure in the world of finance and investment, and the star of Discovery Channel’s Undercover Billionaire, has unveiled his latest non-fiction book, “The Wealth Creation Formula.” With a wealth management portfolio boasting assets exceeding $4 billion, Cardone draws from over three decades of studying the affluent and shares their strategies for success. In his 14th book, the Wealth Creation Formula, the real estate guru exposes three major financial pitfalls that can thwart wealth creation. He delves into the importance of acquiring the right information, dispelling long-held beliefs, and navigating common traps that can keep you from building real, lasting wealth. We sat down with Grant to discuss his new book, it’s relevance for 2023, and most importantly, for all Canadians.
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O T T A W A M A G A Z I N E F A C E S
“ wants more
Purchase Grant’s new book at grantcardone.com/wealth
This book is for everyone and anyone who
W
hat inspired you to write the Wealth Creation Formula? Why now?
I have been confronting the middle class trap for many years. I thought this was a good time to confront the problems with inflation, college debt, and saving money–problems that are affecting both Canada and the US. All these issues that good people–hundreds of millions of good people–have been trying to solve for years, and it has not gotten them ahead. In fact, it has gotten them trapped. I wanted to confront that, and I thought this was a good time to do it. Inflation is something that is particularly relevant to Canadians right now. How do you address inflation in The Wealth Creation Formula? Inflation is something that has been around for thousands of years, and it’s not going to go away. We act like it’s the boogeyman. In truth, it has existed since 3 0
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the beginning of time. Prices have always been going up. And wealthy people know that, so wealthy people own assets, not liabilities. Inflation destroys people who are saving money, and benefits people that have real assets that produce cash flow. Inflation is very similar to COVID. It’s invisible, and you don’t know where it came from. The truth is that colds, flus, viruses and inflation have been around since the beginning of time. It’s about how you prepare yourself. And most people are simply unprepared to benefit from inflation. That’s the real conversation. You have written books for leaders, business owners, and entrepreneurs. Is it safe to say that this book is for everyone? This book is for three groups of people. It’s for people in the lower and middle classes who are sick and tired of not getting ahead. It’s for the hustlers, the up and coming solopreneurs, that have a great work ethic, but are still not getting ahead. And it’s also for the country
I S S U E
club rich people. The people who thought that they were well to do, upper class, that realize they also are at risk. This book is for everyone and anyone who wants more. In 2023, how does someone discern between genuine financial wisdom and the noise that is out there on social media? Ask for the receipts! If somebody shows you that they are on a private plane, saying it’s their jet, ask for the tail number. When did you buy it? What year is it? How many hours are on it? People need to start asking for receipts. The so-called financial and real estate gurus–some very famous people by the way–who are giving advice on silver, gold, bitcoin. Ask them, how much bitcoin do you own? How much real estate do you own? People have been getting away with this for a long time. So, the way to break through and find out real from unreal, is to simply ask for transparency. What do you like about the writing process?
This is our holiday issue, so I have to ask. What’s your favourite holiday movie and song? That one is easy, The Family Man with Nicholas Cage. And the song? Either White Christmas, or It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas. Do you ever come up to Canada? I got my start in Canada! I’ve been to Nova Scotia, Winnipeg, Toronto, Hamilton, Saskatoon, Regina, Calgary, Banff, Vancouver... all across the country, love it there!
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You’re about to understand wealth and money (there is a difference between those two) using a process that took Grant over three decades to develop and perfect. Cardone will show you how to build wealth in all areas of your life; including money, notoriety, health and relationships.
Grant Cardone
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I am the biggest beneficiary of the writing process. I get to clarify my own thinking and what I know and don’t
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know. I used to believe that people were financially illiterate. But in writing this book, I realized that we’re not. My mom was a single mother who saved money, and I always thought she was financially illiterate. But she wasn’t. She was indoctrinated to save money and focus on expenses, when the wealthy were focused on how to grow revenue and invest in assets. She was indoctrinated to save money and play it safe with the banks, when wealthy people were taking risks and never depending upon banks.
IN FASHIO
FACES
MAGAZINE
Shoe, Mr. P Scott Polished Leather Penny Loafers
Choose a shoe with a narrow shape and a pointed toe to elongate the leg, and avoid bulky footwear like chunky sneakers. Accessorize the top half of your outfit with a hat or glasses to keep the eyeline centered on your face.
WEAR FITTED, MONOCHROMATIC CLOTHES The bunching of fabric at the waist and ankles that often accompanies oversized pants and bulky sweaters breaks up the lines of the body. Avoid this by sticking to fitted silhouettes, like a skinny trouser or jean, and a snug button-up and well tailored suit jacket. Keep the outfit in monochromatic dark shades to further elongate the body– this works by creating a clean line from the head to toe, avoiding breaks at the waist.
3 STYLE HACKS TO LOOK TALLER Three style secrets to radiate stature and poise.
AVOID BELTS, CROPPED JACKETS, AND VESTS The main goal is to keep the eyeline clean from neck to ankle, avoiding abrupt pauses. Belts add a horizontal line in the center of the eyeline, making you appear wider rather than taller. The same goes for cropped jackets and vests, the harsh line at the waist disrupts the eye and can call attention to a shorter torso to leg ratio.
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OTTAWA FACES
Unbeatable Brunches
In October, we asked: What are some of Ottawa’s most top notch establishments for a late breakfast, also known as an early lunch? Here are some of the most popular recommendations.
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A sophisticated dining experience from the street level of the Andaz Hotel in Ottawa, the contemporary restaurant offers an impressive selection of Canadian-inspired dishes. Must-try: the Sunrise Omelet, made with goat cheese, heirloom tomatoes, red onion, and kale, served with breakfast potatoes and your choice of multigrain or white rustic toast. |
F A C E S
VANITEA ROOM An elegant tea room with a modern twist and luxury feel, that comes alive for morning brunches and afternoon teas. Must try: The Spoil Yourself Three Course. Includes a personal bottle of mimosa (with the choice of grapefruit or peach liqueur), a single scone with preserves, and an Eggs Benedict (Pink Vegan or Bacon), and a mini dessert.
FEAST & REVEL
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/03 COCETTE’S MUST TRY The famous French Omelet, served in a small pink cocotte. It includes 3 eggs omelet with chives, gruyere cheese, fried little potatoes and toasted country loaf.
OTTAWA’S MUST-TRY BRUNCHES
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COCETTE BISTRO
N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R
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Cocotte Bistro is a a taste of modern, authentic French cuisine with a delightful Ottawa angle. The bright, energetic bistro on Metcalfe offers locally sourced, fresh ingredients and seasonal creations in a charming and lively atmosphere.
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FOR THE LOVE OF HOCKEY Team Canada Star Brianne Jenner “Can’t Wait to Represent Ottawa” in New Professional Women’s Hockey League
Brianne Jenner is one of the most talented, accomplished players in women’s hockey. Jenner has played for Team Canada for well over a decade, winning five gold medals – two at the Olympics and three at the World Championships. Jenner was absolutely incredible at last year’s Olympics in Beijing, scoring 9 goals (an Olympic record) and 14 points in 7 games, not only helping Canada win gold, but winning the tournament MVP award. Now she’s about to represent Canada’s capital in the new Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), a league she helped to build as a board member with the players’ association. Ottawa will begin play in January, along with Toronto, Montreal, New York, Minnesota and Boston. And Jenner can’t wait. “I think what excites me most is to have a chance to help build the foundation of a brand new franchise,” Jenner told Faces. “Being a part of this league is a dream come true and I feel extremely lucky that myself and my teammates will not only play in the inaugural season but have a chance to impact the identity and character of the Ottawa organization.”
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“I think we are about to see our sport explode.”
GLISTENING IN GOLD Brianne Jenner poses with three Olympic Medals, a silver for PyeonChang 2018, a gold for 2014 Sochi, and a gold for 2022 Beijing, where she was crowned the tournament MVP.
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Faces: Ottawa signed you as one of the very first players in the league. What did that mean to you? Brianne Jenner: It was an enormous honour to be able to sign with Ottawa in the PWHL. I know this has been something myself and my peers have been focused on achieving since the folding of the CWHL in 2019 and a lot of work went in behind the scenes to get to this point but that’s only a small piece of the journey that got us here. It’s really been something that our sport has been building towards for generations. There were a lot of amazing women that came before us that got us to this point. We stand on their shoulders and I hope when puck drops in January those pioneers feel a part of the celebration. How would you describe the general state of women’s hockey right now? Extremely exciting. I think we are about to see our sport explode. I think the growth in the professional game will have a positive trickle down effect. It will bring more fans into our game, create more opportunities for players, coaches, referees, everyone involved in the sport and I I think it will inspire the next generation of players to dream big. How does the signing process work? Is it just like NHL free agency? Were other teams talking to you? The free agency period was brand new for all of us and certainly an exciting, albeit stressful few days. I just kept pinching myself and thinking, is this really happening? It wasn’t like anything any of us would have experienced in our careers thus far. It was pretty cool for women’s hockey players to be having those conversations with GMs, facing those
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decisions and feel the full scope of being a professional athlete. I owe a lot to my agency (CAA) and my team there (Dominique Didia, Jen Kardosh and Mike Chiasson) for helping me through that process and to my family for their unwavering support. I couldn’t be happier to have landed in Ottawa and can’t wait to represent the city. What was it like watching the first professional women’s entry draft unfold? Not only did you get to see your Ottawa team take shape, but it felt like a historic day for the sport. I was on the edge of my seat. It was such a historic day and I think women’s hockey fans enjoyed a highly entertaining event. To see all the teams start to take shape was so exciting. As you look at the roster, what kind of team do you think Ottawa will have? I think we have some great depth in all positions. There’s a lot of great players and talent on the training camp roster and I am excited to see how we can elevate each other’s games when we come together in November. I think we will find out our team identity when we hit the ice together but I think it’s safe to say we’d love to be a team that is difficult to play against. What kind of coach is Carla MacLeod? Carla brings so much experience, knowledge and passion to our hockey club. I know players love to play for her, and work hard for her. I’ve had the chance to play against Carla’s teams over the last few years and you certainly notice how selfless, hard working and difficult they are to play against. FACES MAGAZINE
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Forward Brianne Jenner #19 of Canada celebrates her goal against goaltender Aerin Frankel #31 of USA during the gold medal game of the 2023 IIHF Women’s World Championship at CAA Centre on April 16, 2023 in Brampton, Ontario. (Photo by Dennis Pajot/Getty Images)
You’re nine years apart, did you ever play with Carla at any point? Yes, I was lucky to overlap with Carla one year with the National Women’s Team (my first year and her last year). I was a bit of a deer in the headlights with so many legends in the room that I watched growing up. Carla was a great veteran and always knew how to keep things light and make others around her feel at ease. It was pretty amazing to have that year as an 18 year old with that core group of veterans (McLeod, Sostorics, Pounder, Kellar, Goyette etc.) Many of them retired after Vancouver 2010, so I feel pretty lucky to have snuck in to play with them for a bit of that season. You have some teammates as young as 22 or 23. So you’re probably going to be seen as a leader whether you want to or not. Is that a role you embrace, helping young players? It’s definitely something I’ve tried to embrace. I hope to bring a positive impact to the locker room and 40
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help instill confidence in my teammates, especially the younger ones. I’m really looking forward to getting to know my new teammates and building a strong foundation together. Any idea when we’ll see Ottawa’s colours, uniform and a name for the team? No, but I hope we will get some news soon! I think I am just as eager as our fans to know! What’s happening now in preparation for the season? When does training camp start? Right now I am in the gym and on the ice regularly, preparing for what will be a challenging schedule come January. I think we will see an extremely high level of competition every single night in this league and we can expect a physical battle every game. So I am working hard to ensure I am ready for November training camp and ready for the demands of the season ahead.
What would be your message to Ottawa hockey fans about the PWHL and what they should expect? I think it’s pretty historic and awesome to have one of the original six franchises of women’shockey in Ottawa. So much women’s hockey history comes from our nation’s capital and I thinkit’s so fitting for another chapter to begin here. I think we as players recognize the opportunitywe have and will be working our hardest to earn the respect of our Ottawa fans and make them proud. It’s not going to be easy in this league, it will be best on best every night and high skilled and paced games, especially with only 6 teams in the league. But we’re looking forward to that challenge and to hopefully bring a championship back to the city. If there’s one player who knows championships – with her five gold medals and gigantic trophy case – it’s Brianne Jenner.
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THE HAYS SUITE Named after Charles Melville Hays, commissioner of Château Laurier, the Hays Suite has been redesigned to compliment the historical original features of the suite and maintain a timeless elegance. Featuring a dining room, living area, bedroom and ensuite, the new interior celebrates the unique character of our landmark while accentuating the beauty that portrays “Canada’s tradition of grandeur”.
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Three interiors that inspire us through distinctive design.
THE CELINE DESK A soothing and neutral-toned office space adorned with luxurious wood textures and complemented by gentle whites and soft beiges. At its heart lies the exquisite Celine Desk, a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary design featuring three drawers, elegant tapered legs, and tastefully integrated metal accents. Discover the Celine Desk and similar room settings at Cadieux Interiors.
THE STONE TOUCH COLLECTION by AD Waters
is a tribute to the artistry and skill of Italian craftsmen. It combines refined details, rich textures, and premium materials to create a sophisticated and timeless look. Whether you want to relax or rejuvenate, the StoneTouch collection will transport you to a place of wellness and comfort. AD Waters is a leader in designing and producing high quality faucets, shower systems, and accessories for bathrooms and kitchens. Experience these design trends at Preston Bath + Kitchen Design Centre.
Exploring the
Straight Razor Shave This classic grooming implement can strike fear into the hearts of the hirsute. But place it in the hands of an experienced groomer-stylist, and it’s still the best way to the smoothest, closest shave a man can get. Roosters Men’s Grooming Center should know. Roosters has been offering expert straight razor shaves since the day they became Ottawa’s most trusted grooming and styling salon. Who better to turn to for straight talk on straight razors? Here’s why you should opt for the straight razor and what you can expect.
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Good For Your Skin Cartridge razors cut the hair under your skin, which is the main cause of ingrown hairs and shave bumps.
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And Your Complexion Rooster’s Mens Grooming uses hot towels to open your pores before using the razor, making for a procedure as smooth as your face.
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LOCK Consistency and authenticity are the cornerstones of Brandon Pillar and Ross Levitan’s journey in podcasting. Made popular by their extensive hockey expertise, humour, and guest roster, including former Senator Marc Methot, their Locked On Senators Podcast has garnered over 12,000 followers on X alone.
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KED On Senators
Ross and Brandon met as students of Toronto’s College of Sports Media in 2016, immediately banding together as the only two Sens fans in a room of Leafs fans. Some years later in 2017, they would start LOSP. On October 5th, the duo celebrated their 888th episode, featuring a special appearance by Keith Tkachuk, father of Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk. Brandon and Ross eagerly anticipate sharing their passion with Senators fans once again this season,. We caught up with the power-podcasters to discuss LOSP’s early days, and their recent success in the raucaus world of sports entertainment and media.
Who were your favourite players growing up? What made you love the Sens? Brandon: My favourite player growing up was Dominik Hasek. I became a hockey fan in 1999 and watching Hasek in the Finals is what made me love the game. The way he was so unorthodox yet so dominant was fascinating for me. I followed him from team to team, then when he landed in Ottawa, I pledged my loyalty to the Sens forever.
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If you could have one current or former Senator on your podcast, who would it be and why? There are some obvious answers like Dominik Hasek, Brady Tkachuk and Daniel Alfredsson. But I actually think the most interesting guest would be Dany Heatley. He still holds the single season goal record for the Sens and the way he left was so chaotic I’d love to hear his side of the story. Who has been your favourite guest to work with at this point, and what story or tidbit stands out to you most about interviewing them? Being able to have Marc Methot on the show consistently has been an absolute blast! Meth is a hometown guy who played for the Sens and now works as a broadcaster covering the team so he gives a perfect mix of insight and knowledge. Anytime Meth is on the show, people know we will have an in depth discussion and have a few laughs along the way. What advice would you give to other podcasters about growing their brand and audience online? I have two pieces of advice: Be consistent and be true to yourself. People need to see that you’re active and engaging for them to be interested in what you have to say. And don’t try to be something you’re not, people know when you are faking it or putting on an act. Let’s talk about the upcoming season: what are your expectations for the Ottawa Senators this year, do you guys see them as a playoff team? We have a saying on the show for this: Playoffs or Bust, no excuses. This team has the star power, has spent to the cap and has missed the playoffs for 6 straight seasons. Even injuries can’t be an excuse, this team has to find a way to make it to the post-season now. What do you think about the Senators off-season moves – did you like the Tarasenko and Korpisalo signings? Were you fans of the Debrincat trade?
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Alex DeBrincat didn’t want to be here, so I’m glad he is gone. Most of the stars and core players can see the vision here and have committed long term. Signing a 29 year old free agent goalie to a 5 year deal is risky, but they got the right guy at the right price in Joonas Korpisalo. Tarasenko feels like a hired gun that may have been a luxury this team can’t afford, but if he produces another 30 goal season it could be a gamble that pays off. What is a piece of advice you would give to new Senators majority owner Michael Andlauer, and second, what is something you’d like to see the franchise do differently in terms of fan experience?
Michael Andlauer has impressed me so far. He has a focus on treating employees and players right and building a new arena with the fans in mind. My advice to him would be to provide stability and be honest with the fans. Ottawa is a passionate area and can support their team if they are treated right. For any of our readers who may not have heard it yet, how would you describe your podcast? We like to think of the Locked On Senators Podcast as the show For Fans, By Fans. Ross and I approach this show as fans of the team but with a polished touch based on our education and job experience in the industry. We aren’t going to tiptoe around negative aspects of the team but also we will be the loudest one’s celebrating their success, we tell it like it is. What do you hope Santa Dorion brings the Senators roster before the trade deadline this season? I hope Dorion can provide a roster that can have a winning record in November.
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Cutting a Path
FORWARD Listen, engage, and empower. That’s the advice of Phil Weaver, who has over three decades of experience managing workforces exceeding 200 people. After thirty years in high tech, over which the enterprising Weaver grew businesses across the globe, the Ottawa native took his managerial skills to another field entirely: the beauty industry. “I felt it was time for a change,” he explains. “The beauty industry was interesting not only because it was close to home, but because it was customer focused.” To say that Weaver was just as successful in his new milieu would be a grievous understatement. As CEO of Oakview Management, Weaver oversees 49 salons across Eastern Ontario. They operate under four imminently recognizable brands: First Choice Haircutters, Magicuts, SmartStyles, and his most recent acquisition, Rooster’s Men’s Grooming. BY DAN LALANDE Photography by Freshh Anderson
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Oakview’s empire began in 2008 when the company acquired a nest egg consisting of twelve franchises. Twelve years later, it had more than quadrupled in size, offering haircuts, styling, colour/highlights, and beard trims not only in the Ottawa area but in Embrun, Hawkesbury, Rockland, Gatineau, Manotick, Kemptville, and Carleton Place.
Oakview’s most recent acquisition, Rooster’s, has changed the grooming game for men. The burgeoning franchise, with locations in Kanata and Orleans, has tuned into a large, underserved market, offering men the kind of personal attention that borders on pampering. “I felt that men needed an upscale place to relax, an escape from their busy day,” explains Weaver. “Each client has a private area to get their services: haircuts, straight razor shaves, facial treatments, and beard trims.” Weaver makes sure that the teams helming each of the Oakview-owned salons, regardless of which brand they represent, are regularly updated on the latest trends and techniques. “To be successful in the beauty industry, skills need to be elevated,” he maintains. Looking to ensure quality control, Weaver, in 2019, oversaw the acquisition of a trio of beauty academies, here in Ottawa and in London, Ontario. “We train the students in hair services, medical esthetics, and esthetics,” he lists. “And as the owners of 49 salons, we’re well suited to ensure that the students have lots of handson experience to hone and perfect their skills.” Given Oakview’s success, it’s no surprise that Weaver is also in demand as a business guru, helping aspiring entrepreneurs take their businesses to the next level. In 2020, he founded the Canadian Salon Franchise Association with over 400 salon locations in Canada. The association provides business advice to improve operations and assists in the resolution of contentious issues impacting operation and the business caused by the Franchisor. In addition, the association assists owners to secure competitive costs on products and services.
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“There is always a path forward. Even when it does not seem evident.” So, what’s Weaver’s formula for successful leadership? According to the indefatigable entrepreneur, it’s a clear vision. “Make your values and expectations obvious,” he advises. “Also, practice integrity and clear communication. We need to treat everyone with fairness and respect.” That said, Weaver is quick to admit that despite their success, he and his team are ever-evolving. “We are always learning,” he admits. “There are many challenges that we face.” Hence, his strategic retreats into sessions of serious self-reflection and his consultative discussions with fellow business owners. These practices not only assure the solvency of Oakview’s interests, they also imbue their figurehead with the spirit of positivity and adaptability. “There is always a path forward,” Weaver advises optimistically, “even when it doesn’t seem evident.” FACES MAGAZINE
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Ottawa’s Best Burger We asked Ottawa to name their
go-to spot when it’s time to enjoy a North American staple, the hamburger. Here are 3 of the top recommendations. @facesottawa
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Law & Orders
Home of the Rhippo Burger 4 LOCATIONS ACROSS OTTAWA @FACESOTTAWA
Law & Orders Restaurant is known for its delicious fresh handmade burgers that use locally sourced Canadian beef. The restaurant (now with 3 locations in Ottawa) is famous for its Rhippo Burger: named after the founder Jamie Law’s late father Jim, this burger features two half-pound bacon cheeseburgers, and is the feature burger in their Rhippo Challenge. Must Try: The Rhippo Burger. 2 X 1/2 lb Burgers, Bacon, Cheese. Topped with Mustard, Ketchup, Pickles, Onions, Mayo, Lettuce & Tomato.Served on a fresh buttery brioche @lawandorders
Umbrella Bar Pearson St. 1001 QUEEN ELIZABETH DRIVEWAY DOW’S LAKE
Ottawa’s premier waterfront restaurant patio and event space on Dows Lake. Must Try: Juicy Bacon & Cheese Smash Burger Topped with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and their secret house made burger sauce. Served on a fresh buttery brioche bun.
@umbrellaottawa
Smashburgers
10 BLAIS STREET EMBRUN After winning the lottery in 2020, Chef Chris Pearson and his son Cory Pearson opened a food truck dedicated to burgers and melts. Chef Pearson brings 50 years of experience to the menu, and his wife Kris has built the brand from a marketing perspective. The truck is in its third season in Embrun’s Yahoo Park. Their secret? Pearson Street uses local black angus chuck beef from Gillette Farms, served with fresh cut fries. Must Try: The Mushroom Swiss or Hot & Smokey Smashburger @pearsonstreet1
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Go Greek The Evolution of Ottawa’s Freshest Franchise In 2016, Ottawa’s very own George Plagakis embarked on a mission to create more than just a restaurant; he sought to encapsulate his community-minded ethos and Greek upbringing in a unique culinary experience. The result was PI·RHO Fresh Greek Grill, a place where timeless old-world recipes meet new world preferences. He built it carefully. PI·RHO Grill wasn’t solely about Mediterranean cuisine; it represented a commitment to health conscious, locally sourced and gourmet dishes, served efficiency and convenience, while offering a restaurant ambiance that extended a warm invitation to linger and savour the moment.
Collaborating with his longtime friend and renowned chef, Luis Molina, Plagakis delivered Ottawans a fast-casual twist on the Greek Mediterranean tradition. From sourcing local ingredients (whenever possible) to crafting authentic seasonal dishes and embracing eco-friendly packaging, PI·RHO Grill mirrors the values and lifestyles of its community. As the success of PI·RHO Grill expanded from its initial location in Barrhaven to three locations across Ottawa, it became evident that Plagakis’ vision of “fast casual” dining, unburdened by the constraints of traditional fast food, resonated not only with Ottawa but also with Canadians as a whole. Thus, that vision became a model for his franchise, set to expand across Canada, starting in the GTA.
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Founder and Owner George Plagakis, who developed PI·RHO Grill’s innovative concept.
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Bottom: Partner and Corporate Chef Luis Molina. Chef Luis developed the menu with a focus on freshness and countless combinations (from lamb to vegan options), both healthful and delicious.
Choose a base, enhance it with a spread or dip, add your favorite veggies or type of protein, then garnish it with a variety of toppings and your preferred dressing. That’s the concept at PI·RHO Grill, where hungry, health-conscious customers come for a gourmet bowl or pita filled with selfcreated goodness they might have previously believed only a Greek grandmother could prepare. Enter with an appetite, leave with an eye-catching dish of greens and grains adorned with fire-roasted eggplant, grilled meatballs, and watermelon radish, all glistening with a lemontahini-thyme coating. This is just one of PI·RHO Grill’s endless mix-and-match selections that Plagakis and Molina have been perfecting since 2016. For George, entrepreneurship followed an apprenticeship running his initial restaurant, followed by a role as a managing partner of Baton Rouge Restaurants, in the Ottawa/Gatineau area. Next came fatherhood (two children) and the decision to stay at home. However, being part of a family again reminded him of the cuisine and camaraderie of his Greek upbringing in Montreal. “Eating was an event,” Plagakis reminisces, “highquality, home-cooked meals made with love.”
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Plagakis’ plan was not only to offer time-tested fare but also to champion contemporary values, such as fresh and high-quality ingredients. Its beverages, including craft beers and house made teas, are locally sourced products and the greek yogourt comes from Skotidakis Goat Farms in St-Eugene, Ontario. Furthermore, PI·RHO’s packaging and cutlery are mostly compostable — “If you have something to put in the garbage, you didn’t buy it here!”, says Plagakis. The decor at each of the three existing locations is crafted from reclaimed wood, illuminated by an energy-efficient lighting system.
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PI·RHO is present in Centretown, Barrhaven, and Kanata, with new locations opening in GTA in 2024. Plagakis extends an exciting opportunity to likeminded entrepreneurs, inviting them to establish their own franchise under the PI·RHO brand. “I want all Canadians to have access to PI·RHO for themselves and their families,” explains Plagakis, “to eat well and feel great afterward, and to share my upbringing with the country.” Interested parties, particularly dedicated food enthusiasts with a strong work ethic, a firm social conscience, and an interest in fostering community, can access the franchise brochure on PI·RHO’s website. In just a few short years, George Plagakis’ vision for PI·RHO Grill has transcended culinary boundaries, offering Ottawans and Canadians alike a taste of both tradition and innovation. With its unwavering commitment to quality, freshness, sustainability, and a welcoming atmosphere, PI·RHO Grill is not merely a dining destination; it stands as a testament to the power of community values and the shared joy of healthful, delicious food. As PI·RHO Grill continues its expansion across Canada, it welcomes like-minded entrepreneurs to join this extraordinary journey, spreading the warmth and flavours of Greek heritage to every corner of the country. FACES MAGAZINE
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EGOR SOKOLOV HAS COME ALONG WAY, BUT THERE’S STILL ONE MORE STEP TO GO By Steve Warne
After three years in pro hockey, Ottawa Senators prospect Egor Sokolov hasn’t landed a full time NHL job just yet, but he’s still managed to build a pretty solid fan base in Ottawa. From Rocky to Rudy to the 1980 Miracle On Ice, everyone loves an underdog story and Sokolov has a dandy. Back in 2017, Sokolov couldn’t speak a word of English when he left Russia to pursue his NHL dream in Canada. His billet brother in Sydney, Nova Scotia was Drake Batherson, who had just been drafted by the Senators. Batherson took him under his wing and helped him adjust to his new surroundings on the East Coast. They never imagined they’d eventually end up in the same NHL organization. But it took a while. After two years with Cape Breton in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, Sokolov was famously passed over in not one, but two NHL drafts. At that point, he considered giving up the dream and returning home to Yekaterinburg, Russia. But he decided to push on and he’s glad he did. In 2019-20, in his last year of junior eligibility, and in the midst of the COVID pandemic, Sokolov erupted for 46 goals in 52 games. It was now impossible for the NHL to ignore him and the Senators selected him late in the second round, 61st overall. As good as Sokolov’s hockey story is, people respond equally well to his positive, engaging personality. For example, right after Sokolov was drafted by Ottawa, some endearing video from his draft party emerged on social media.
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he 2020 NHL draft was held online and when his name was announced, Sokolov – wearing a dark pink suit – was joyfully mobbed by his billet family.
During his three years living with the Ryan family, Sokolov was like a son to them and like a big brother to their daughter, Neico. Sokolov was never too cool to play Barbies with Neico or sing songs with her in the back seat on the way to hockey practice. As an NHL prospect, there’s a lot to like. He’s still only 23 years old – a 6-foot-3, 222-pound winger, who’s been an excellent scorer in both Quebec Junior and in the American Hockey League, leading the B-Sens in points last season.
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“Everything Happens for a Reason
....I’m six years now in Canada and happy I made that
decision.
In late September, as the Senators were starting training camp, Faces caught up with Sokolov to discuss his journey to this point. Faces: How did summer training go this year? Sokolov: Really good. I was in Ottawa all summer. I went home for six weeks after the season. And then probably around midJune, I came back to Ottawa and spent the summer here. It was great – a lot of skating, a lot of training. So yeah, I’m definitely happy with how everything turned out and how good of shape I am in right now.
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hat were some of your goals in the off season?
The biggest goal was to elevate my skating as much as I could. I worked three times a week with our technical skating coach, Shelley Kettles. We focused on things like quickness and my skating has come a long way. I was also focused on “How can I be the difference out there with my big frame? How can I use my body? How much advantage can I give myself? How quickly can I make a decision on the wall or protect the puck down low or take the goalie’s eyes away?” You and your girlfriend Kaleigh got engaged, how did that come to be? After the season was over, we went to Miami for a little vacation. So that’s where I proposed to her. So I think that was one of the things that was keeping us busy over summer, planning the wedding and stuff like that. You’re certainly in a different place now compared to six years ago. You had just arrived in a foreign country, you spoke no English, and you were away from your family. Can you tell us about those days and how Drake Batherson played a role in helping you adjust?
Yeah, absolutely. When I came over in 2017, he was the best thing that could have happened to me. He was like my brother. I remember the first day we were on the ice and I’m like, ‘Man, there’s no way this guy was like a fourth round pick. I can’t believe he’s not a first round pick.’ Obviously, it was hard for us at the start because I couldn’t speak a lick of English and it was all texting and translating on our phones. For me, it was uncomfortable going with the boys everywhere because I couldn’t talk, or understand, and I was worried it was going to be awkward. But Drake always just told me, ‘You’re coming with us. You don’t have an option.’ So that helped make me more comfortable. And if I made a mistake, Drake was like, ‘Okay, he made a mistake. Let’s joke about it, but we’re not gonna make him feel bad about it, right? And then I get drafted by Ottawa and next thing you know, we’re in the same organization again. It was definitely special for me playing my first NHL game and he was out there as well. Back in junior, I couldn’t talk to him. And
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now we talk for hours and hours non-stop. So definitely, I was lucky enough to have him as a billet brother for half a year and we’ve kept it really close since. You originally cancelled your plans to come play hockey in Canada. What happened? And what changed your mind? When I was 16, I pretty much had to make a decision. My agent back then called me and asked what I wanted to do next year. And I told him straight on that I want to try to play in Canada. He had a really good connection with the Moncton Wildcats, so he called them and he said, ‘Hey, I have a client and if you’re interested, watch this big tournament he has coming up and see if you guys might want to pick him.’ So I had a phenomenal tournament with 12 points in six games and Moncton decided they were going to pick me. So I have three or four months before the draft to chill out, spending time with my mom and dad and brother and I’m all good to leave. And then, boom, the day of the draft hits. I look at mom, I look at dad, I look at my brother. I said, “Guys, I don’t think I can do this. I can’t go that far away and not be able to see you guys whatsoever.” So I called my agent 10 hours before the draft to tell him I’m backing out. So he’s obviously panicking. It’s not the best position for an agent to be put in. He calls the team and they’re pretty rattled as well, but it is what it is. So later on, I watched the import draft, just to see where my buddies were going to go and Cape Breton, out of nowhere, picked me at 35. I called my agent right away. I said, “These guys know that I’m not coming, right?” He’s like, “Yeah, they do know that, but the GM called and said we know we’re taking a risk here. We would love for him to come. But if he doesn’t, you know, we took a swing. It is what it is. We’re ready to waste the pick.” So I’m like, okay, these guys are serious. They’re wasting their pick? You only have two picks. They could have picked anybody else, someone that wanted to come. So, after that, I looked at my mom and dad again and I said, “I think it’s meant to be. I think I have to go. Everything happens for a reason. And next thing you know, two days later, I call back and tell them I’m coming over. I’m six years now in Canada and happy I made that decision. After being passed over twice in the NHL Draft, what was it like when the Senators finally called your name in 2020? Coming into that draft, my agent back then tells me it’s a 99.99999 percent chance I’m getting picked today. And in my 64
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head I’m like, “Okay, so there is .11111 chance that I’m not getting drafted.” So you start worrying and everything got dragged out. The NHL draft was in October and my season got cut short in March. So I had to wait seven months before getting drafted. Doing the calls with all the teams was stressful too, because I wanted everything to be perfect. I didn’t want to give anybody a reason not to pick me.
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it wasn’t the thing I was focusing on. It was my overall game and obviously getting rewarded at the end of the season with five NHL games was probably one of the most amazing feelings I’ve had.
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And it was the first time they were doing it online. It was dragging on so long. We were at pick 40 and I thought we were in the 7th round. So in my head, I’m thinking, I’m not getting picked again. This is done. And then soon enough, 61 comes around and boom, I’m getting drafted. It was crazy. Everything I had to sacrifice, leaving my mom and dad and brother and it finally paid off. It was a dream come true. What’s been the difference between playing in the AHL and playing in the NHL? To be honest with you, once you get comfortable at the NHL level, it actually gets easier than the AHL because the NHL has the best players. They know where to be, how to get open, when to get open. They always talk to you and they make everything easier on you. Whereas the AHL, there’s a lot of guys who are trying to get to the NHL. Most of the guys think the only way they can get to the NHL at this point is by flying around and grind, grind, grind. It’s all about putting a puck deep and banging bodies and stuff like that. But once you get up and you play with NHL players, it makes it easier. Obviously, how much time you have with the puck is one thing where you have to be much quicker than at the AHL level. But everything else, once you get hold of it and you build chemistry with your linemates, it becomes much easier.
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Were you happy with your season last year? Yeah, absolutely. Not so happy with the overall season because we didn’t make the playoffs. But I can’t say that I wasn’t happy with what I was able to achieve, leading the team in points. But it wasn’t the thing I was focusing on. It was my overall game and obviously getting rewarded at the end of the season with five NHL games was probably one of the most amazing feelings I’ve had. And then making an All Star game, getting a Team MVP award and a Man of the Year award. I’d be lying to you if I told you I wasn’t happy with my season. How excited should Ottawa Senators fans be about the 2023-24 season? I think the people should be really excited. It’s definitely a special group, especially young and obviously a good mix of veteran presence as well. I think it’s going to be a big run of Ottawa hockey for next year. It’s impressive to watch them and how tight they are off the ice is probably even more impressive, how they just enjoy spending time at the rink.
Unfortunately for Sokolov, he didn’t make Ottawa’s NHL club out of camp this year so it was back to Belleville for now to keep working on the dream and terrorizing opposing AHL goalies. Perhaps Sokolov can take after Mark Stone and draw inspiration from his early days in Ottawa. Like Sokolov, Stone wasn’t the game’s finest skater and still isn’t today. All Stone has ever done is produce and now he’s a Stanley Cup champion. Sokolov has also produced at every level, entering this year with 134 points in 169 career AHL games. Given the chance, especially when you factor in his amazing attitude, it’s hard to believe Sokolov won’t soon find his way to the highest level.
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