Friday, February 18, 2011

Jacks’ Lochner Commits to Niagara University

Press Release

The Muskegon Lumberjacks announced that forward Chris Lochner has committed to play collegiate hockey at Niagara University next season.

"After college, the sky's the limit," Lochner said. "Thanks to the USHL's preparation – the speed of the league, the competition and what's asked of you – the goal is to someday play the NHL. What's most important is that I'll have a career after college."

Lochner is playing in his first USHL season and is fifth on his team in scoring with 25 points (12g, 13a) in 38 games. The Alpharetta, Georgia native has been a staple on special teams and relied on in all situations for the Lumberjacks. He recorded back-to-back two-goal games in November, both victories over Team USA, and has totaled four multi-goal games this season.

"Once he adjusted to this league, he became one of our most solid players," Lumberjacks Head Coach Kevin Patrick said. "He has been very good on the penalty kill and one of our top faceoff men all year."

Lochner will be joined at Niagara by Muskegon teammate Isaac Kohls who is also committed to the school. Two other current USHL players have committed to continue their hockey careers at Niagara University – forwards Doug Clifford of the Des Moines Buccaneers and Sam Alfieri of the Lincoln Stars.

"He drew attention from a number of Division-I schools," Patrick said. "Niagara saw his versatility and they see him being a great fit in their system."

Niagara University is a member of the Atlantic Hockey Association and has 11 USHL alumni on the current roster; Dan Baco (Lincoln Stars), Cody Campbell (Cedar Rapids RoughRiders/Fargo Force), Carsen Chubak (Tri-City Storm), Patrick Divjak (Waterloo Black Hawks/Sioux Falls Stampede), Bryan Haczyk (Green Bay Gamblers), Clark MacLean (Ohio Jr. Blue Jackets), Robert Martini (Indiana Ice), Ryan Rashid (Sioux City Musketeers), Kevin Ryan (Waterloo Black Hawks), Brendan Sheehan (Omaha Lancers), and Dan Weiss (Lincoln Stars).

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

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