Defenseman Ross Rouleau makes the cut

Joins Andrew Scampoli and Matt Ezzy on Texas Brahmas training camp roster

Ross Rouleau came into camp with one thing in mind - to earn a spot on the Texas Brahmas roster and help the team to win a championship. He is one step closer, having earned a CHL training camp contract after competing in the Brahmas 2nd annual Making the Cut prospect camp.

At 20, the 6-foot-one, 180 pound defenseman came to NYTEX two weeks early, skating and working out daily to be ready physically. Rouleau brought a level of skill, maturity and a work ethic that impressed coaches Dan Wildfong and Ron Vogel. When he learned he had made the cut, Rouleau said he couldn't believe it. "I was pumped...but it only gets harder from here," he said.

Last season, Rouleau played for Finlandia University, a member of NCAA Division III and the Midwest Collegiate Hockey Association (MCHA). He notched 25 points (7 G, 18 A) in 26 games played. He played for the Marquette Rangers (NAHL) before attending Finlandia University.

Rouleau is the brother of Pete Rouleau, a forward who signed with the Brahmas in August. Pete encouraged Ross to try out for the Brahmas and was in the stands daily to provide support. Both played for Hancock High School and at Finlandia University but due to a five year age difference, the prospect of the two brothers playing on the same team was never a possibility, until now.

Rouleau is looking forward to the challenge of the training camp.

"It’s going to be tough. I’m glad I went through "Making the Cut" to get in better shape. If you didn’t come in shape, there was no chance you had to make the cut," Rouleau told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

Photo Credit: Robert Keith