By Joshua Boyd / USPHLPremier.com
The South Shore Kings’ Dominic Walecka couldn’t be more excited about joining the Worcester State Lancers. The New England Division All-Star goalie, who put up a .919 save percentage in 24 games this past USPHL Premier season, got an early look not just at the campus itself, but at Lancers team life.
“When I toured Worcester State, a couple of guys on the team showed me around. I got to see the rink, locker room and campus which I immediately fell in love with. The team is very tight knit and I’ve heard nothing but good things about the program,” said Walecka, who also saw a call-up with the Kings’ NCDC team this year.
Walecka is not only excited about joining a burgeoning program under Head Coach Jay Punsky, but also a strong academic institution.
“I am majoring in business and Worcester State’s business program is very good. The class sizes are small which is a learning environment I thrive in,” added Walecka.
Walecka jumped from the EHLP up to the USPHL Premier for 2023-24, and saw outstanding growth in his overall game.
“I had a great time playing for the Kings this year. The coaching and facilities were some of the best around and we had a lot of ice time, which we utilized daily,” said Walecka. “Our practices were high-tempo. Everyone competed and pushed each other to be better. This was key for development and getting me ready for my college career.”
Walecka was excited to be a part of the USPHL Premier, and felt fortunate to utilize its unmatched Showcase Series to put himself in front of coaches from all around college hockey.
“I really liked the showcase opportunities that the USPHL presented. Every time there was a showcase I was talking to coaches and getting exposure,” he added. “The USPHL also did a great job with their accolades such as Players Of The Week and Month and the MVPs/All-Stars at the end of the year.”
Playing in a league with more than 240 players committed to college, Walecka feels the league sharpened his game towards moving on to the college game. But there’s still plenty to do before he first pulls on a Lancers jersey.
“College hockey is going to be a big step up in size and speed from juniors. I want to work on speed in the off-season,” added Walecka. “Pushing my feet every time I’m on the ice and not being afraid to fall. My goal is to beat the puck to wherever it’s going, and to stay under control while doing so. Getting quicker in practice will translate to my games and make me a better player.”
The USPHL congratulates Dominic Walecka, his family, the South Shore Kings and Worcester State University for his commitment.
