Chill defenseman Smith makes NCAA DI commitment

Press Release

The Coulee Region Chill, proud members of the North American Hockey League, are pleased to announce that defenseman Derek Smith, 19, has made a verbal commitment to a NCAA Division I college on Thursday when he announced he will attend Quinnipiac University.  The Bobcats, who are members of the ECAC, just finished as National Runner-Up in the NCAA Frozen Four.

“Derek is a player who has achieved everything through hard work and dedication.  This level of commitment has clearly paid off for him.  His outstanding character and work ethic will be a great addition to the Quinnipiac team and I wish him all the best,” said Chill Head Coach AJ Degenhardt.

As a first year defenseman with the Chill, the Apple Valley, Minnesota native registered 2 goals and 19 assists for 21 points in 60 regular season games.  Smith also played in the 2013 NAHL Top Prospects Tournament in February for the Midwest team.  While at the tournament, Smith had two goals and two assists in three games.

Smith is the fourth player from this year's Chill team to make a NCAA Division I commitment.

 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)