UPEI Panthers add firepower in forward Robert Orr
The UPEI Men’s Hockey Panthers just kicked their game into high gear with the addition of Robert Orr, a high-octane forward with a knack for lighting up the scoreboard.
As the Panthers gear up for another season, Orr's arrival marks yet another infusion of young talent that promises to bring offensive firepower.
Standing at five-foot-11, Orr joins the Panthers’ lineup following an impressive career in the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), where he established himself as a consistent point producer. In 233 games with the Halifax Mooseheads, Gatineau Olympiques, and Acadie-Bathurst Titan, the 21-year-old amassed 78 goals and 121 assists for an impressive 0.85 points per game average. His final season in the QMJHL was particularly noteworthy, as he erupted for 24 goals and 58 assists in just 64 games. His playoff performance was equally remarkable, adding four goals and seven assists in eight games.
One of the key factors behind Orr's recent success was his relaxed approach to the game. By focusing on enjoying the game rather than worrying about outside distractions, he found a new level of performance, which he plans to bring to the Panthers.
“I stopped putting pressure on myself, which helped a lot in my success,” said the Montréal, Quebec native. “I worked with my coaches and focused a lot on myself and my game to improve every day.”
Head coach Forbes MacPherson is thrilled to have Orr on board and sees him as a potential top-six forward who can make an immediate impact. His ability to skate with speed and control, combined with his vision and poise with the puck, make him an asset in all situations on the ice.
“We’re very excited to add Bobby to our program,” MacPherson said. “He can play in all situations, and he has the potential to be an impact forward in our league. We’re excited about what he brings to the table.”
Already brimming with young talent, the Panthers are even more ready to take on the season with Orr in the mix. His ability to generate offence and his versatility on the ice will undoubtedly be key factors as the team looks to build on their recent success and make a deep playoff run.
That youthful energy is one of the reasons why Orr committed to UPEI.
“I’m very excited to join this team. We’re a young group with lots of talent, and I think we’ll surprise a lot of people this year and in years to come,” Orr said. “I think I’ll fit in very well because this team plays fast and relentlessly, and I try to model my game after those things."
With Orr’s addition, the UPEI Panthers have positioned themselves as a team to watch, not only this season but also for years to come. And if his past performances are any indication, Panthers fans have every reason to be optimistic in 2024–25.
