Richard Molenaar played three seasons for the Thunderwolves Mens Hockey Team and in that time he became a fan favourite for his high energy and hardworking style of play.
He and fellow graduating forward Matt Maisonneuve became arguably the best PK forward tandem in Thunderwolves Hockey history.
Molenaar brought high energy every time he stepped on the ice and he was not afraid to punish opponents with hard body checks. He also showed marked improvement in his offensive skills during his three-year Lakehead career.
Former Head Coach Don McKee said Molenaar was known for his hard work and passion for hockey. Richard will never be outworked by a teammate or an opposition player. He has a strong passion for the game which allows him to succeed and have fun during the journey. His defensive skills continued to improve and he became one of the best penalty killers in the OUA. Hopefully, a pro career will be in the future for Richard so he can further develop his skills.
Molenaar also had some of the most passionate Thunderwolves fans as his father, mother, and family members would gather to watch Lakehead home videowebcast games on their deck at their North Delta, BC home; watching the games live on the big screen they would bring out to the deck (as long as it wasnt raining).
Molenaar will graduate from Lakehead with a degree in Political Science. He also finishes his Lakehead hockey career with 13 goals and 23 assists in 110 games.
Molenaar hopes to pursue a professional hockey career in Europe and also to pursue a career in law enforcement.
Name: Richard Molenaar
Hometown: North Delta, B.C
Program: Political Science Pre-Law
Sport: Hockey
Years as a varsity Lakehead Athlete: 3
Q & A With Richard Molenaar:
1)What are your fondest memories as a Lakehead varsity athlete?
Playing in front of great fans at the Gardens.
2)What do you think was your top athletic achievement or performance as a Lakehead Varsity Athlete?
Playing on national television in this years nationals against UNB so that all my friends and family back home could see me play. Especially my grandparents who havent been able to see me play in over ten years.
3)What did being a Lakehead varsity athlete teach you that will help you in your life after university?
To be able to work within a team environment to achieve goals. The ability to organize my time to manage the weight load of school, hockey, travel and other activities.
4)What are you plans after graduating from Lakehead?
Playing hockey over in Europe or becoming a cop.