Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Speelman to UNH

Press Release

The Green Bay Gamblers announced that forward Dalton Speelman has committed to play collegiate hockey at the University of New Hampshire. Speelman will enroll at the school this fall.

The 19-year-old from San Jose, California totaled 42 points (21g, 21a) in 57 games during the 2008-09 season as he helped the Gamblers capture the Anderson Cup as regular season champions. Speelman also registered a plus-30 rating which ranked sixth overall in the USHL.

"I am very proud of the fact that when it is all said and done, all 23 players on our 2008-09 roster will either receive a college scholarship or sign a professional contract," said Jon Cooper, Green Bay Gamblers Head Coach/General Manager. "I am extremely happy for Dalton. Not only is he going to get a chance to play at a major Division I institution, but he is also going to get his four years of education paid in full."

Speelman recorded a four-game point streak from December 31st, 2008 to January 9th, 2009 scoring eight points (3g, 5a) during that span. He netted a "hat trick" on March 14th, scoring three goals in the second period of a 5-1 win vs. Des Moines. The forward was slated to return to the Gamblers for the 2009-10 season before earning the scholarship offer from the University of New Hampshire.

“Yes, New Hampshire has put us in a tough spot this late in the game, but no worries as our team will be ready to play on opening night, October 3”, said Cooper.

Three other players who spent the 2008-09 season in the USHL will attend the University of New Hampshire this fall; Greg Burke (Cedar Rapids), Brett Kostolansky (Chicago), and Scott Pavelski (Waterloo). Fargo Force goaltender Cody Campbell will also attend UNH following his USHL career after recently announcing his commitment to the school.

Eight other former USHL players are on the New Hampshire roster for the 2009-10 season; Mike Borisenok (Green Bay), Nick Krates (Omaha), Mike Sislo (Green Bay), Blake Kessel (Waterloo), Mike Beck (Sioux City), Brian Foster (Des Moines), Matt DiGirolamo (Waterloo), and Phil DeSimone (Sioux City).

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

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