Quebec Major Junior Hockey draft prospects soon learn fate on P.E.I.

The next SidneyCrosby or Brad Richards could be in Charlottetown over the next few days as the city hosts Quebec Major Junior Hockey league teams and prospects for the annual draft and meetings.

About 300 hockey players from across the country will find out their future this weekend.

Events began on June 1but the actual draft takes place on June 4 at the Eastlink Centre.

Charlottetown events development officer Wayne Long saidSaturday's draft will be the culmination of a year of hard work by the scouting staff of the 18 teams who have looked at hundreds of prospects over the past season.

"And it's a real coup for us to be hosting this event," said Long.

"Both the city and the Islanders have joined forces well over a year ago to submit a bid. Very similar to the NHL draft but obviously on a much smaller scale."

'Energy in the air'

He said it's agreat opportunity to come and see the stars of the future as they begin their junior hockey careers.

"It's a real highlight for those potential prospects and for their families," Long said.

"Everyone is hopeful they get selected. It's really cool to see this up close and feel the excitement and energy in the air."

More than 2,000 people are in town for the event, generating an estimated $1.5 million in economic spin offs, noted Long.

This is only the second time the annual Quebec Major Junior Hockey League draft has been held in
Charlottetown. The last time was in 2006.

Islanders pick 17th

The draft will begin at 10 a.m. and admission is free.It is expected to take all day to complete the 14 rounds.

The Halifax Moosehead will pick first, while the Baie-Comeau Drakkar hold the second pick. TheCharlottetown Islanders will select 17th.

Benoit-Olivier Groulx, son of former Gatineau Olympiques coach Benoit Groulx, and Nova Scotiadefenseman Jared McIsaac are projected to be the top two prospects in the draft.

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