Rapids Announce Major Trade, Welcome Etienne Champagne to the Team

The Paugan Falls Rapids have made significant moves to strengthen their lineup, starting with the acquisition of Ryley Egan from the Manotick Mariners in exchange for cash considerations. In a subsequent move, the Rapids traded Egan to the South Grenville Rangers in exchange for star winger Etienne Champagne.

Who is Etienne Champagne?

Etienne Champagne is a powerful 6'1", 240-pound winger known for his offensive prowess and lethal shot. Throughout his career, Champagne has consistently been an elite scorer. A product of the Gatineau Flames’ Jr. A program, he concluded his junior career in spectacular fashion with the Hull-Volants, where he led the league in goals (54) and amassed an astonishing 103 points in just 34 games.

Born in 2001 and hailing from Buckingham, Quebec, Champagne has close ties to several current Rapids players, including Alex Lafreniere, Jeremy Maisonneuve, John Mahoney, Eric Skyba, Nic Carroll, and Devon Thompson. This familiarity is expected to help him integrate seamlessly into the Rapids lineup.

This season, Champagne has already tallied six goals and three assists in 10 games with the Rangers, demonstrating his continued offensive production.

A Key Addition for the Rapids

Head Coach Randy Peck shared his enthusiasm about the new acquisition:

"We're thrilled to have Etienne joining the team. We think he'll fit right in with our young core and are excited to see the impact his unique skillset will bring to the lineup!"

Champagne is expected to bolster the Rapids' offensive lineup as they gear up for the second half of the season. His size, shot, and scoring ability are poised to make him a significant asset on the ice.

Etienne’s Perspective

Champagne expressed his excitement about the trade and playing in Low:

"I'm happy to join the team. It's a great organization and it's closer to home for me. I played for the away team and still liked it since the crowd is insane in Low. I can't wait to play in front of it now for the home team!"

When to Watch Etienne in Action

Etienne Champagne will make his Rapids debut this Friday in the Battle of Quebec against the Pontiac Comets in Shawville. While fans in Low will have to wait until December 14th to see him at the Gatineau Valley Arena, the anticipation is already building.

With this addition, the Rapids have positioned themselves strongly for the second half of the season, and fans can expect exciting hockey ahead. Welcome to the team, Etienne Champagne!