John Gibson (left) and Jon Gillies of Team USA during a game against Finland at the USA hockey junior evaluation camp at the Lake Placid Olympic Center in Lake Placid, N.Y., Aug. 6, 2012. (BRUCE BENNETT/Getty Images/AFP)
CALGARY - Oh sure, Jon Gillies is proud of his achievements so far this season.
And thrilled with the latest payoff — a spot on the U.S. national team for the upcoming world junior tournament in Russia.
But it’s all not coming as a big shock for the Calgary Flames prospect, especially the world juniors opportunity.
“It was in the back of my mind,” said Gillies, one of three goalies on the preliminary list for a Team U.S.A. squad that will bring all three netminders to Ufa, Russia.
“When I got the call, I was obviously thrilled. It’s a big honour, especially being the only 1994 (born) goalie taken. It’ll be a good chance to gain a lot of experience.
“I’ll be a sponge, take in everything.”
Gillies, chosen in the third round (75th overall) in the 2012 draft, went into the season with a golden chance to be a big part of his NCAA team. The Providence College Friars needed a new No. 1 netminder.
