Fenton students get French lesson from Wolves player

Fenton High School students were able to say “bonjour” to one of the Chicago Wolves on Wednesday — and everybody knew what they were talking about.

Alexandre Bolduc, a Montreal native and center for the Wolves, visited the Bensenville school to meet with students studying French and to participate in a question-and-answer session.

Bolduc, who grew up in a dual-language household, answered questions primarily in French and occasionally in English.

Wolves players who speak French have been going into schools since the 1999-2000 hockey season as part of their outreach program.

“It's another way the Wolves are able to give back to the community,” said Becky Jarosch, community relations coordinator with the Wolves. She says it's also a good way to reach high school students and let them know about the team.

Students had a variety of questions for Bolduc about his background and how difficult it was for him to climb the ladder of hockey success.

“It's very fascinating,” senior Rodrigo Estrada said. “To understand the French (language), not only should you learn it, but hearing it also helps you learn it.”

Students also were able to get autographed photos and junior Pedro Huerta won a signed hockey stick in a raffle.

“I'm super excited,” he said. “I've never won anything.”

French teacher Barbara Loeb, who organized the visit, wants students to write a report based on Bolduc's answers to their questions.

“It's their opportunity to meet someone who's a native speaker,” she said, “and not just from France, but our neighbor to the north.”