Three-Time Cancer Survivor Returns for One Last Hockey Showdown
In the realm of college sports, stories of grit and perseverance often uplift and inspire us beyond the confines of the game itself. Such is the tale of Minnesota Duluth senior defenseman, Will Francis, whose journey through cancer not once, not twice, but thrice, is as much about strength of spirit as it is about love for hockey.
A Journey Marked by Resilience
For Francis, stepping onto the ice in St. Cloud last weekend was a moment steeped in reflection and gratitude. Diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia at 19, his path has been fraught with challenges. From enduring chemotherapy treatments to undergoing a bone marrow transplant, every comeback onto the rink has meant a little more appreciation for the sport that has been his sanctuary and social fabric.
“We were just eating breakfast and I said, ‘This. This, exactly,’” Francis recalls about a conversation with Anaheim Ducks coach Greg Cronin, describing the everyday moments with his teammates as the real treasures he missed during the tumultuous years away from the game.
The Battles and the Brotherhood
As Francis prepares for what could be his last postseason with the Bulldogs in Tempe, Arizona, his perspective on life and hockey has been profoundly reshaped. “He means so much to this program,” reflects his captain, Dominic James, conveying the collective pride and respect his teammates harbor for him. To them, Francis is more than a player—he’s a beacon of resilience and leadership.
Participating in his 36th game for the Bulldogs, he dreams of victory, not for personal glory, but to savor one last run with his team. The echoes of past triumphs, like the run to the NCAA regional finals in Loveland, resonate strongly as he eyes the NCHC quarterfinals with the Bulldogs.
Quiet Strength in the Face of Public Attention
Courage doesn’t always roar. Often, it whispers through actions taken quietly, without fanfare. Francis admits it isn’t easy battling cancer in the public eye. Yet, it’s through the silent support from families of young cancer fighters and the indomitable spirit of his late teammate, Adam Johnson, that he gathers strength.
“Parents see it can be done,” he notes, conscious of the hope his story brings to others. He hopes that through his battles, people understand what it means to not give up on what’s truly important.
A Legacy Beyond the Ice
As the Bulldogs prepare to face Arizona State, uncertainty looms over whether Francis will play. Still, his legacy is firmly entrenched in the team. “Keep battling, keep fighting,” echoes coach Scott Sandelin, reflecting on the profound life lessons Francis imparts through his indomitable fight.
In the heart of Minnesota Duluth, Will Francis’ story is more than about cancer or hockey. It’s a narrative of resilience, underscoring a universal message that if something is important, there’s always a way through. As stated in Duluth News Tribune, stories such as Francis’ remind us all of the power of perseverance and the transformative impact of hope.
