JP Lamoureux about to come back – luxury problem for Red Bull Salzburg! – Hockey-News.info
September 3rd, first group game of the Champions Hockey League in Norway. The season had only just begun. Even before the end of the first period against Frisk Asker, JP Lamoureux twisted his knee in one quick movement and stayed on the ice with a contorted face, then made way for Nicolas Wieser. After less than 14 minutes, the season opener for the 37-year-old American was over again. If it was initially said after an initial careful diagnosis that he might be back in two weeks, this was revised after a closer examination. The knee injury should ultimately take him out of the game for three months.
JP has been working on his comeback every day and is now ready to go back to the competition. The Red Bull Salzburg homepage asked how he had experienced the last few weeks – it was the longest injury break in his entire career.
JP, nice to see you out on the ice in full gear. How are you?
I am fine. It’s been a long rehabilitation phase, but now I’m looking forward to getting back on the ice and being with the team.
How did you long for your comeback?
I hope it will be ready next weekend. That was now 12 long weeks, which I spent in the company of the trainers and physios, mostly with goalie coach Markus Kerschbaumer. As I said, sitting in the dressing room with the boys again, that’s what I’m looking forward to most.
How did you experience the last few weeks?
It was a real challenge, I’ve never had a lengthy injury like this before. First I had to figure out what that meant for me and set myself new goals, work my way back step by step, in order to finally be able to get back to the ice in good health. Then to work on being ready for games too.
What did your exercise program look like?
I started again with the basic exercises and ran a lot on the treadmill. Over time, I was able to do weight training again and sit on the ergometer. Then the goalkeeper-specific exercises were added. You can say that every four weeks I took a big step and started difficult exercises.
You also took on statistical tasks at the Red Bulls’ home games.
These are things I like to do for the team. I was glad that the coaches included me in the games in this way. Among other things, I analyzed the shots, my own and those of the opponents, plus the faceoffs and other key figures that help the coaches analyze the game.
What can you expect on the way back to the team alongside or with Atte Tolvanen and Nicolas Wieser?
I just want to get another chance to play. I want to use my full potential and help the team. I want to be part of the team again. I think we’re a really strong group and we can still achieve a lot this season. To be part of this whole and to play games again, I’m really looking forward to that. Anyway, I’m ready!
www.redbulls.com, Photo credit: CDM / Blende47