Raiders are delighted to formerly announce and welcome Matthieu Gomercic, a 25 year old native of Winnipeg, Canada to fill the second “non-EIHA trained player” slot. The 6’3” forward is a very welcome addition following the sudden early departure of Ryan Shaw and his impressive background will be placing some expectation on his broad shoulders.
Matt spent the latter part of last season playing in the ECHL for Atlanta Gladiators in his first pro contract making 17 appearances. Prior to joining Atlanta, Matt had spent three seasons (excluding the cancelled 2020/21 season) in the USports League for Ontario Technical University in Oshawa where he majored in Kinesiology. Whilst undertaking his studies he made 59 appearances scoring nine goals and seven assists
Matts move to Atlanta came after a scouting recommendation to play at the higher level for his first pro contract. He found himself competing for ice time with rehabilitating players from even higher leagues. That undoubtedly lead to some limitation of his ice time but provided greater incentive to battle for the available slots.
Prior to University, Matt played in the Manitoba JHL for Steinbach Pistons and Humboldt Broncos making a combined total of 200 appearances, scoring 31 goals and 53 assists for 84 points.
Matt is keen to get going and is expected to play in the Sheffield double header this weekend.
“Yeah I’m super excited for the new opportunity.
“Being so far away from home I was a little nervous but the fans and players have been great in welcoming me in and Romford already feels like home.
“Being able to watch the game against Leeds gave me a glimpse into how strong a team we have and I’m looking forward to being able to add to the line-up.”
Coach Sean Easton was pleased for such a quick positive outcome after the unexpected loss of Ryan Shaw.
“Matt comes highly recommended from a number of players and coaches I have spoken to.
“He is a “big unit” and great experience playing for the Atlanta Gladiators last season in the East Coast Hockey League which is a very good standard.
“Matt takes pride in his defensive game but has huge offensive upside with his size and strength. He’s got a quick release of a heavy shot, as well as being a great skater with a high hockey IQ.
“I’m definitely looking forward to Matt coming in and making an impact with the Raiders.”
The fans certainly gave him a great welcome after the game on Sunday and we look forward to seeing him on ice, fully kitted this weekend and some appearances on the scoresheet.
