Believing in Himself: Seth Legarde’s Hockey Journey Through Perseverance and Community Support
As Hockey Northwestern Ontario recognizes National Indigenous History Month, we are proud to share the story of Seth Legarde, a Grade 12 student at Seventh Fire Secondary School and a member of Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation whose hockey journey is a testament to perseverance, resilience, and the power of community support.
Unlike many players who begin skating at a young age, Seth first stepped onto the ice at the end of Grade 9 after watching others play and deciding to give hockey a try himself.
“It was challenging, because the ice was slippery and it was hard to keep my balance,” Seth recalled of his first experience on the ice.
Learning th
e game alongside players who had spent years developing their skills was not easy. Seth admits there were many moments when he felt discouraged. One of the biggest challenges was keeping up with other players while learning the game and trying not to make mistakes.
“When I did make mistakes, I tried harder,” he said.
What kept him going through those difficult moments was the support of the people around him.
“What helped me keep going were my teammates and peers.”
Through the Seventh Fire Hockey Canada Skills Academy, Seth continued to develop his skating, stickhandling, shooting, and edge work. Year after year, he worked to improve his skills and build confidence on the ice.
That hard work paid off this past season when he joined Grandview Minor Hockey, a milestone that meant a great deal to him. 
“It made me feel special, it made me feel good,” Seth said.
Looking back on his hockey journey so far, Seth says he is most proud of his teamwork and the growth he has achieved through the game.
The support he received from Seventh Fire Secondary School played a significant role in helping him reach that point.
“It kept me going when I didn’t think I could do it,” he said.
Seth credits many people for helping him along the way, including his family, classmates, and Seventh Fire Hockey Canada Skills Academy Director Bradey Fox.
“The person who has had the greatest impact is Bradey Fox. I wouldn’t be in this position if it wasn’t for him.”
For Fox, Seth’s journey has been inspiring to watch.
“Seth’s journey has been truly inspiring to witness,” said Fox. “From the moment he stepped onto the ice, he has shown an incredible level of perseverance, courage, and commitment to learning. Learning to skate and play hockey can be extremely challenging, particularly when everyone else in the academy has been skating for 10+ years, but Seth has never let obstacles stand in his way.”
“What stands out most about Seth is not just his progress on the ice, but the determination and character he demonstrates along the way. His consistency, resilience, and willingness to keep trying especially when things are difficult have made him a role model for the other students in our program.”
As Hockey Northwestern Ontario celebrates National Indigenous History Month, Seth is also proud to share his connection to Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation. Growing up, he enjoyed attending pow wows and continues to participate in community events including swimming, bowling, and skating activities.
When asked what National Indigenous History Month means to him, Seth’s answer was simple and powerful.
“It makes me feel strong and resilient.”
He also believes representation in hockey is important.
“It’s important that people recognize us as people with strengths, ambitions, and ties to the community.”
Looking ahead, Seth hopes to continue improving his hockey skills, stay in school, find a good job, and continue playing the game he has grown to love.
Most importantly, he hopes his story encourages others to believe in themselves and try something new.
“You can do it,” he said. “It’s important to believe in yourself and your strengths.”
For young people who may be nervous about trying hockey or anything new Seth’s advice is simple:
“Keep trying and never give up.”
His journey serves as a reminder that success is not always measured by where you start, but by the determination to keep moving forward. Through hard work, community support, and a willingness to believe in himself, Seth has shown that it is never too late to step onto the ice and discover what is possible.
Thank you for taking the time to read and reflect with us as we recognize National Indigenous History Month. We thank Seth, his family and Bradey Fox for sharing his story and look forward to continuing to highlight the diverse voices and experiences that help grow the game across Northwestern Ontario.
