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Parenteau pressing for position between pipes in PA

Sep 6, 2012 | 5:34 PM

Rylan Parenteau is one step away from cracking the regular season lineup with the Prince Albert Raiders.

The goaltender from Saskatoon has been impressive in rookie- and main camp and is one of three netminders still with the team.

Although the 4th round 2011 draft pick of the Raiders doesn't turn 16 until Nov. 16, he has played like a veteran through rookie and main training camps and is thrilled to have a chance to play in the WHL this season.

“It feels great just to be a part of this organization.” said Parenteau.

“It's been a really good camp starting with rookie camp, from the first day of fitness testing through to main camp. I feel really confident with my play and there are two great goalies in the (dressing) room over there. It's definitely a battle for spots right now.”

Parenteau's increased comfort and confidence comes from last years’ experience in his first Raider training camp.

“I got to know a few of the guys, the rookies and more of the vets as well. I felt a little more comfortable even in the rink with the experience of playing last year (for the Saskatoon Contacts) against the Mintos.

Parenteau had a 10-4-2 record with a 2.30 GAA and .881% with the Contacts, and wasn't totally satisfied about spending last season as the back-up to Mack Shields.

“I have mixed emotions about last season.” said Parenteau.

“I didn't get as many starts as I wanted but it was a learning experience. It was nice to get in some games especially at the Mac (Midget tournament) and event at the Telus (National championship). It was overall a really good season.”

Parenteau is competing with 20-year-old WHL veteran Luke Siemens and 19-year-old Raider incumbent Cole Holowenko for the two netminding positions.

Siemens was acquired from the Moose Jaw Warriors during the bantam draft for a 4th round pick last May and a 3rd round selection in 2013. Holowenko became the Raiders number one goaltender last January after the trade of Eric Williams to Spokane.

Parenteau says the quality and quickness of the shots improved considerably in main camp and he expects it to get even tougher in preseason. However he feel's up to the challenge.

“I'm really looking forward to the next week coming up, practicing and coming up to the exhibition games and I'm definitely going to make the most of it here.”

Raider day festivities on Friday include a Co-op sponsored barbeque from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. culminating with the preseason opener at the Art Hauser Centre against the Saskatoon Blades.

The home-and-home series wraps up Saturday night in Warman. Both games can be heard on 900 CKBI beginning with the pregame shows at 6:55 p.m.

dwilson@panow.com

On Twitter: @RaidersVoice