Freshman Forward Finds Fit in Grand Forks

Connor Davis arrived in Grand Forks with a modest statistical record. The freshman forward from Vaudreuil-Dorion, Quebec, has recorded four points in his first five college games. That production line is the baseline for a player who is still adjusting to the pace of collegiate hockey. His path to the University of North Dakota was not the direct route most Quebec players take.

Most hockey players in Davis' home province skip university to enter the QMJHL. Davis instead prioritized academics, attending a private school in Montreal where he balanced fluency in both French and English. His parents emphasized education, which kept him on the radar of college recruiters. When the university contacted him last year, he viewed the offer as a long-held aspiration realized.

His decision to attend was rooted in a lifelong connection to the program. Davis grew up as a fan of Clayton Keller, watching him play for the NTDP and Boston University. He has since modeled his own game after Keller’s style. This admiration helped solidify North Dakota as his top choice among available schools.

Off the ice, Davis maintains a simple routine. He takes naps of 15 to 30 minutes before games, a habit he describes as essential for his energy levels. He also enjoys cooking, a competitive outlet for him. He frequently prepares meals for family members, often attempting to create dishes that outdo the ones his parents make, such as their Jamaican specialties like ackee and saltfish or jerk chicken.

The transition to life in North Dakota includes exploring local culture and dining. Last weekend, he visited Harry’s with his billets and praised the experience. He remains connected to his roots in Vaudreuil-Dorion, where he recalls the intense passion fans displayed for the local hockey culture. That environment shaped his early development, including the backyard rink his parents built for him and his siblings to play on.

Davis’ background includes a mix of sports before he focused solely on hockey. He played house league soccer and golf to maintain stamina during the off-season. His initial foray into hockey was casual, driven by a desire to learn how to skate and follow his older brother’s lead. That casual start evolved into a serious commitment, culminating in his recent goal at UND, which he cites as his most memorable scoring moment.