(FREDERICTON, NB) Jason Willms has some big shoes to fill… make that, has some big skates to fill.
The third-year REDS’ forward and Business Administration student has been named the REDS’ captain for the 2022-23 Atlantic University Sport season.
“It’s a huge honour to be able to wear the ‘C’ for this group of guys,” said Willms. “Watching those before me here at UNB, like the practice habits of Kris Bennett to the consistency that Sam Dove-McFalls brought to games, practices, his work in the classroom, I’m humbled to have been selected to follow them.”
Willms was chosen by his teammates, along with permanent assistants Austen Keating and Noah Carroll.
Veterans Brady Gilmour, Ross MacDougall, Kade Landry and Connor Hall will serve as rotating assistant captains.
“A key part of the tradition of success here has been our outstanding leadership,” said REDS head coach Gardiner MacDougall. “This year’s edition of the REDS features 15 players who wore letters in major junior, including seven former team captains. We believe that leadership is a responsibility shared by everyone, and everyone will be a key to our success.”
Of Willms, MacDougall says “he has an outstanding competitive, work ethic and attitude, he’s among our fittest players, is a two-time Academic All-Canadian, and is a player who possesses high level leadership skills. He comes to the rink every day energized to give his very best performance and in turn is a great inspiration to the rest of our team.”
Willms previously served as captain of the Barrie Colts, of the Ontario Hockey League.
“Austen is a team first player who leads with his tremendous work ethic and positive attitude,” said MacDougall. “Noah brings poise and a veteran presence, is a key cog in the UNB defense, and has been part of a national championship squad.”
“To me, being the captain starts with being consistent in all aspects of my day,” said Willms. “Leading by example through my work ethic is something I strive to do and try to bring to every game and practice. We have high standards here, but it’s important to try and raise that level every day, in order to get us where we want to go.”
The leadership group is quick to acknowledge that the REDS roster is full of leaders.
“We have 22 leaders in the room,” said Keating. “Everyone has their own role in helping achieve success. Having this many leaders brings stability to our group and there is a strong sense of trust among each other.”
The REDS, defending Atlantic University Sport champions, open the 2022-2023 regular season Friday, hosting the UPEI Panthers.
Game time is 7:00pm.
“This program takes pride in winning our last game,” said Willms. “After last season’s result, we’re all excited to get back and have a chance to change the ending this year. We need to bring our best qualities on a consistent basis, and the results should speak for themselves.”