Tuesday, October 1, 2013

Heller commits to Bemidji State

Press Release

The Aberdeen Wings, proud members of the North American Hockey League (NAHL), are pleased to announce that forward Jordan Heller has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for Bemidji State University, who are members of the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA).

“Growing up in Bemidji it’s always been a dream of mine to play for BSU. I was able to speak with both Coach Winter and Coach Anzalone and they agreed that Bemidji fit my style of hockey and I would benefit from the University," said Heller. "Coming to Aberdeen last year and being able to play at a competitive level of hockey for all 60 games along with my off season training has really helped me develop as a player."

Heller, 19, is in his second season with the Wings. Last season, the native of Bemidji, Minnesota, played in all 60 regular season games for Aberdeen.  He totaled nine goals and 15 assists for 24 points and had one game-winning goal.

The month of March was the most productive for Heller (6’0/180) last season, as he had seven points to help the Wings finish the regular season as one of the hottest teams in the league.

This season, Heller has one assist through four games, all of which came at last week’s NAHL Showcase. His assist came in Aberdeen’s 4-2 win over Rio Grande Valley on September 19th.

“We are very excited for both Jordan and Bemidji State University,” said Wings head coach Travis Winter. “He is a natural fit for their program. He has earned this opportunity through hard work. Jordan plays the game the right way and is going to be a great player at the college level. We look forward to continuing his development here in Aberdeen.”

Prior to playing for the Wings in the NAHL, Heller was a standout forward for Bemidji High School in Minnesota.  In 25 games during his senior season, he amassed 29 points.

Bemidji State is a member of the WCHA and coached by Tom Serratore. In 2009, they made the NCAA Division I Frozen Four tournament. Their roster this season will feature a total of eight NAHL graduates on it including former Aberdeen Wings forward Cory Ward.

Heller is the second Wings player this season to make an NCAA Division I commitment, joining teammate Colin O’Neill, who is committed to play for UMASS-Lowell.

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

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