Player advance from Powassan
Graduated Powassan Voodoos defenceman Nicky Grose is headed to the New York-based Utica College Pioneers to continue his hockey career at the Division 3, National Collegiate Athletic Association level.
The 1995 birth-year defender capped a three-year Northern Ontario Jr. Hockey League career in Powasssan in 2015-2016 with a 12-goal, 47-point effort in 54 games.
“After doing my own research on the school and hockey program I decided that it is a place where I would like to be for the next four years,” Grose said of his move to Utica.
Voodoos general manager Chris Dawson also likes where the 5-foot-11, 170-pound Grose is headed.
“Nicky had some options and this one at Utica really stood out. Personally, I’m thrilled to see him get this opportunity as he came in as an undersized utility player and within three seasons he transformed into an all-star calibre defenceman in the NOJHL,” said Dawson.
Grose, in turn, saluted his Powassan, NOJHL experience.
“My years (in the NOJHL) were great at facilitating me to become the best player I can be. This last year with Powassan taught me a lot about helping lead a team to a winning season. With this experience under my grizzled belt, I am confident that I am ready to make the jump up to the NCAA,” related Grose.