The line to meet Easton Cowan wrapped all the way around the exterior of the clubhouse at Caradoc Sands Golf Club in Strathroy, Ont. Fans arrived as early as 7:15 a.m. to be at the front of the line for the meet and greet with the local hockey hero. He brought the Calder Cup trophy and a pair of championship rings from the London Knights. He was expected to sign autographs from noon to 2 p.m. but the response was so overwhelming he stayed for an extra hour. “This community has done a lot for me and it will always have a special place in my heart,” said Cowan. “I’m just super glad I could bring the cup here today and some rings from London for the fans to take pictures with.” After a rookie season which saw him score 11 goals in 66 games with the Toronto Maple Leafs, he was loaned to the American Hockey League affiliate Toronto Marlies. He scored eight times helping the Marlies win the Calder Cup trophy. “Obviously playing for your hometown team is something special,” said Cowan. “Growing up a Leafs fan and then winning a cup with their farm team was something special. I’ll never forget it.” This summer he spent time meeting fans, working out on and off the ice and playing a lot of golf. He’s now heading back to Toronto to prepare for his sophomore season. “Camp starts on the 16th, so just getting down a couple of weeks early, skating with the guys, meeting the new guys and just gelling with the boys again,” he said. Depth charts have him pencilled in as a second- or third-line winger this season. However, he’s taking nothing for granted. “You’re never guaranteed a spot,” said Cowan. “You got to go there and work hard and earn your spot. So that’s what I’m willing to do and just excited to start playing hockey again. Last season dream come true”. He’s hoping the next trophy he’ll be bringing home for a meet and greet will be the Stanley Cup. “That’s the one I really want,” said Cowan. “Looking forward to the challenge to get there and excited to get started.”
