WATERLOO, Ont. - The Laurier Golden Hawks have added an offensive-minded defenceman to their recruiting class for the 2026-27 OUA men's hockey season, announcing the commitment of Xavier Lacoste.

The 20-year-old from Ste-Julie, Que., joins Laurier after a productive campaign with the Hawkesbury Hawks of the Central Canada Hockey League (CCHL), where he recorded 12 goals and 29 assists for 41 points in 53 games.

Lacoste's offensive totals led all Hawkesbury defencemen and ranked fourth among CCHL blueliners in both goals and points last season. Sixteen of his 41 points came on the power-play, while he also registered eight multi-point performances during the year.

Listed at five-foot-10 and 181 pounds, Lacoste earned a reputation as a mobile two-way defender capable of contributing in all situations.

"Xavier had a very strong season in the CCHL," Laurier manager of men's hockey operations and head coach Kevin Forrest said. "He is a proven offensive defenceman who combines strong puck skills with excellent skating ability. His mobility allows him to contribute offensively while still maintaining strong defensive positioning.

"He's a reliable player in all situations and brings poise and versatility to our blue line."

Forrest said Lacoste's ability to move the puck and quarterback a power play made him a priority addition during the off-season.

"Xavier caught our attention early as a defenceman who can get up and down the ice extremely fast and help our transition game significantly," Forrest said. "He defends very well, with a physical edge to his game.

"One of our needs this off-season was to find a defenceman or two with the ability and experience to run a power-play. Xavier has done that successfully for a couple of years now and will get the same opportunity here."

Forrest added that Laurier benefited from firsthand insight into Lacoste's character through former teammate Travis Verbeek, who played alongside him in Whitecourt of the Alberta Junior Hockey League.

"Being a former teammate of Travis' in Whitecourt, we had some good first-hand insight," Forrest said. "We know we're getting a great teammate and person."

Lacoste said Laurier's culture and competitive atmosphere played a major role in his decision to join the Golden Hawks program.

"I'm excited to be joining the Golden Hawks and getting started," Lacoste said. "I'm looking forward to bringing speed to the game, making smart plays, and adding some energy and fun while doing whatever I can to help the team succeed."