UMaine’s Jeremy Langlois Triumphs in Return After 19-Month Injury
Jeremy Langlois, a freshman defenseman for the University of Maine, made a triumphant return to the ice after a lengthy 19-month recovery from a severe knee injury. Langlois, who suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee in March 2024, underwent surgery two months later, marking the first significant injury of his hockey career.
Reflecting on his journey, Langlois admitted there were moments when he doubted his return to the sport. “During the first year, I had some setbacks with pain and thought maybe that was it for me,” he said. Once a player for Rouyn-Noranda in the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League, Langlois decided to push through the rehabilitation process. “At some point, I just had to get through it and say it’s not over,” he added.
Langlois played his first games in 19 months during the Black Bears’ recent matches against Holy Cross, which resulted in a decisive 5-2 and 6-0 sweep at Alfond Arena. Despite feeling “a little bit nervous” on his return, he expressed joy at being back on the ice. While he did not register any points in the first game, he made an impactful assist in the second match, setting up a goal with a precise cross-ice pass to fellow freshman Jaden Lipinski.
In addition to his assist, Langlois contributed defensively with two shots on goal and three blocked shots, finishing the weekend with a plus-two rating. Players earn a plus-one when on the ice for an even-strength or shorthanded goal and a minus-one if the opposing team scores. Langlois felt he performed well overall and was eager to improve. “I want to build off that and get better every game,” he stated.
His transition to NCAA hockey has required adjustment, especially in terms of pace compared to major junior leagues. “You don’t know if you are in game shape until you play a game,” Langlois remarked.
Ben Barr, head coach of the Black Bears, praised Langlois’s performance, saying, “He was very steady. He looked comfortable out there.” Barr acknowledged the challenges Langlois faced after such a long absence but emphasized his talent. “He has to find himself after being out for a long time, but he has a lot of ability,” Barr noted.
Senior defenseman Brandon Chabrier shared positive feedback, highlighting Langlois’s movement and passing skills. “That pass he made to Lipinski was unreal,” Chabrier said. He also commended Langlois for being effective on both ends of the ice. “His shot is lethal, to say the least, and he is definitely a threat at the point,” Chabrier added.
Co-captain and senior left wing Thomas Freel recognized the difficulty of returning after a lengthy absence but was impressed by Langlois’s performance. “It’s hard to really replicate game situations even in practice, but I thought he did unbelievable,” Freel stated.
Langlois, now 22 years old and hailing from Ste-Brigitte-de-Laval, Quebec, aims to contribute offensively while maintaining strong defensive play. “I want to create some plays but I also want to bring some steady defense,” he said, aspiring to be an all-around defenseman.
Having watched a game at Alfond Arena last season, Langlois described the experience of playing there this past weekend as “really special.” He was joined by family members, who appreciated the vibrant atmosphere. “They loved the atmosphere,” he remarked.
As Langlois continues to adapt to the NCAA level, his determination and skill set promise to make a significant impact on the Black Bears’ season. With a solid start post-recovery, fans and teammates alike are optimistic about his contributions in the games ahead.
