QMJHL: Moncton goaltender Roman Will clawing his way to the top

Roman Will is certainly making an impression with the Moncton Wildcats this season.

The 19-year-old Czech goaltender basically came out of nowhere to become one of the QMJHL's top goaltenders this season after being selected with the 29th pick in last summer's Canadian Hockey League import draft. Will has played in 50 of Moncton's 55 games this season and is ranked among the league's top net-minders in four of eight categories.

"Roman is one of the most underrated players in the league this season," said Moncton head coach Danny Flynn. "He competes hard and gives us a chance to win every night."

Will is second in wins (25) saves (1,320), second in minutes played (2,858) and has the second-best save percentage (.913). The 6-foot, 187-pound puck-stopper's 2.64 goals-against average is fourth-best in the league, no mean feat for team which moved older defencemen Brandon Gormley and Daniel Milan to expedite their rebuidling. Will's performance over the season has enabled Moncton to stay in the middle of the pack in the QMJHL standings with 57 points courtesy of their 26-24-3-2 record.

Will played for BK Mlada Boleslav in the Czech Extraliga last season where his squad finished dead last in the standings.

Coming to Canada, the CHL and the Moncton Wildcats was a much needed breath of fresh air.

"Playing in the CHL is a dream. I was very lucky to come to a great organization like Moncton," Will said.

"I have been treated very well by my teammates and coaches. I have really enjoyed my time in this league and want to play my best for my team."

Will credits his success to a lot of hard work and quality time spent with his goaltending coach, Marc Champagne.

"We spend a lot of time watching video. From there we identify my weaknesses and move to the ice to improve my skills."

Will's ultimate goal is to play in the National Hockey League. He may be considered a bit of a long shot because of his age but NHL Central Scouting has him listed 30th among North American goaltenders for the upcoming draft in Pittsburgh. But impressive numbers such as those Will is posting tell a lot about a goalie's talent which could prove to be enough to get his name called in late June.

In the meantime the native of Plzen is enjoying his life in Moncton with the Wildcats and their regular road trips throughout Canada's East Coast.

Playing in the Maritimes Division has given Will the opportunity to tour around New Brunswick and spend some time in Saint John and Acadie-Bathurst. Stops in Halifax, Sydney, N.S., and Charlottetown, P.E.I. has also been on his travel itinerary.

"The people are so friendly in all these towns. Everybody is always smiling and so much fun to be around, I really love it." Will explained.

Mike Beasley is a QMJHL columnist for Buzzing The Net (photo: QMJHL).