Martin St-Louis, the head coach of the Montreal Canadiens, shares his evolving relationship with the city. Although he has begun his fourth year in this prestigious role, St-Louis admits he is still learning about Montreal. Growing up in Laval, he had limited exposure to the dynamic atmosphere of the city.
Childhood Warnings and City Exploration
In a recent interview on the show Salut Bonjour, St-Louis reflected on his childhood experiences. He mentioned how his mother played a significant role in shaping his perceptions of Montreal.
- St-Louis grew up in Laval.
- His mother warned him against visiting Montreal due to safety concerns.
- He didn’t explore the city during his teenage years.
“When I was young, my mother convinced me that the city was dangerous,” St-Louis revealed. “I stayed in Laval, and she always said: ‘Don’t go to Montreal, it’s dangerous.'” This mindset limited his experiences in the city until recently.
Growing Affection for Montreal
Now in his role as coach, St-Louis is eager to explore and embrace his surroundings. He reported that he frequently dines out and walks around the area near Sainte-Catherine Street.
- St-Louis is starting to appreciate Montreal’s offerings.
- He enjoys dining at restaurants and exploring the city on foot.
“I’ve realized it’s not as dangerous as I was led to believe,” he stated. His new perspective paints a more favorable image of Montreal, which he now holds dear.
Settling into the Community
As he deepens his connection with the city, St-Louis reflects positively on his experiences. “Yes, I love Montreal,” he affirmed. He noted that he is often recognized in public, highlighting his growing presence in this vibrant metropolis.
St-Louis’s journey from fear of the city to embracing its culture and community exemplifies a personal transformation. He continues to build not only his coaching career but also a newfound appreciation for Montreal.
