Gillies off to a strong start at Providence College PROVIDENCE, RI -- While netminder Jon Gillies has always known Providence College Friars head coach Nate Leaman had faith in his abilities, the perfect example of that confidence came earlier this month after a game against the Vermount Catamounts. "I had a little bit of a hiccup up in Vermont a couple weekends ago," Gillies told CalgaryFlames.com. "I let in some pretty bad goals. But all through the next week, he told me I was back in on Friday. "He's helped me every step of the way ... he's just been great, very supportive." For Leaman, that sureness has been gleaned not only from Gillies play during games but his compete level during practice. "His first month, before we were playing games, he did struggle. He was struggling making the adjustment to this level in practice. I think he was frustrated but he has really learned to battle in practice. "His battle level in practice, his compete level in practice and his work habits in practice have been really good. Because he's worked so hard, he's worked through the transition ... he's doing an excellent job (in games.)" Through his first 12 outings at Providence College, Gillies has gone 6-5-1 while posting a 1.87 GAA and a .932 save percentage. He has made 300 stops during his 705:20 of play, which is second in Hockey East in saves made. Only New Hampshire sophomore Casey DeSmith has made more saves (322) than