Merlin Offman fires a puck on goal during his time as alternate captain of the Bourget Volts [image provided by Merlin Offman]
By Rowan McCarthy
The Ottawa Jr Senators are proud to announce that Merlin Offman has committed to join the team for the upcoming season.
The 2006-born defender is the first addition on the back end this off season. Offman will have big shoes to fill considering players like Jacob Renaud-Viau and Anthony Menard will be graduating.
“Overall, I think I had a really good feeling about the team,” said Offman. “It might not feel like something that is important, but for me it is crucial to have a good feeling about the team because that’s where I will be spending my next year.”
At 6’3, Offman is a puck moving defender who can handle himself in the physical side of the game. He will bring speed, size and skill to the Jr Senators.
Born in Paris, Offman’s family moved him to Montreal at the age of two. The young Parisian excelled on the ice and spent the last two seasons at Bourget College playing with their U18 team.
Over the course of his time at Bourget Offman recorded 7 goals and 10 assists for 17 points through 32 games in the CSSHLE U18 league.
During that time, Offman also played four games with the Montreal Phoenix in the QJHL. He feels that having prior junior experience will help him adjust to the CCHL.
“I think [the biggest difference] is the pace,” said Offman when asked about adjusting to the CCHL. “You don’t have a few seconds to make a play … I know the play is faster so I will need to keep my head up for sure.”
When not on the ice, Offman is a multi-sport athlete enjoying biking and tennis when he can. He spends a lot of time with his family during the offseason either in Canada or visiting his grandparents in France.
Unlike many young athletes, Offman is a good cook and enjoys working in the kitchen.
He is excited to join a new team and have new experiences in the nation’s capital.
