Midweek Column

First off, I hope you all had a merry Christmas and have been able to enjoy the last few days of what has been an awesome year for BC Hockey. This week, the #1 ranked Eagles will get back on the ice as they head out to the Mariucci Classic in St.Paul, Minnesota to face the Alabama-Huntsville Chargers and the host, Minnesota Golden Gophers. The one issue heading into the tournament for the Eagles will be the injuries to defenseman Isaac Macleod and forward Destry Straight as both are questionable for the first game vs UAH but they will certainly make the trip and see if they can give it a go when game time comes around. Without Johnny G, it goes without saying that some guys are going to have to step up their games in order to win both games, especially in the second one vs the Golden Gophers. Macleod being out would hurt but freshman Travis Jeke appears to be ready to step up and fill the hole that Isaac will leave if he is indeed out. Honestly, I'm pretty interested to see how Jeke plays because in his one game this year vs New Brunswick, he actually looked pretty solid. Destry Straight however is the bigger question mark as he continues to be plagued by a high ankle sprain that he suffered vs Boston University in November. Look, I'm not going to sit here and say it's very likely that BC will be able to skate all over Minnesota if in fact Straight is out. Having two of your top six forwards out vs a team like Minnesota is certainly not a good thing. As we get closer to Saturday's game, I think we will be able to get a better picture if or if not those two will play but without them, winning two points in the Gopher State is not going to be easy.

So, how can BC win two games this week if Straight and Macleod are out ? It's simple. Guys need to step up into bigger roles and play effectively on both nights. Guys like Mullane, Arnold, Whitney, and Hayes can't just be good this weekend, they need to be excellent. On the defensive end, it's going to take a superb effort in order to keep a high powered offense like the Gophers off the board long enough to help a surely depleted offensive front. I look at guys like Teddy Doherty and Jeke (if he plays) to go out and play at a high level. It will certainly help that they have a game vs UAH on Saturday to kind of get back into the swing of things before maybe the biggest game of the year on Saturday. No, I'm not trying to overlook the Chargers but I'm trying to get the point across that playing a team of their caliber before playing a team like the Gophers, certainly can't hurt. Of course, the staff is not going to rush Straight back into playing if he can't go but having him back in the lineup, even if he's at 70-75 %, certainly boost BC's chances to win both games.

At the start of the year, I said that two injuries to BC's top six forwards would really be a killer. Unfortunately with Johnny G in Russia and Straight questionable, that could become a reality in the Eagles' biggest non-conference tilt of the season. Do the Eagles have the talent to score goals and keep up with a team like Minnesota without these guys ? Yes, they do but offense is not the issue. The issue is going to be on the blue line. If in fact Jeke goes, that will mean the defending National Champs will have four freshman defenseman going this weekend. Not saying they can't perform at a high level, but experience is something that can never be overlooked. All in all, I think this is going to be one of those weekends where, if BC wins two, people around the country are going to sit down and say "wow, they can win even without their star". It's not going to be easy (it never is) but with each guy carrying a little bit more on his shoulder, a sweep this weekend would be stellar.

Go Eagles.

Midweek Column 

Johnny G Lands on U.S. Roster

Just wanted to take a second a congratulate Johnny G on making the U.S. World Jr Championship team this year. A season ago, he was cut from the squad, something that was surely in his mind when he laced the skates up again this season. Although he will miss the Minnesota, Alabama and maybe Yale games, it doesn't get any better than representing your country in tournaments like these. Congratulations to Johnny and I'm sure he is going to show the world what a world class talent he is.

 Johnny G Lands on U.S. Roster: A Rising Star's Journey to National Glory

In the ever-evolving world of sports, the emergence of young talent is a story that never fails to captivate. Johnny G, the rising star in American sports, has taken the nation by storm with his exceptional skills and unwavering determination. His recent inclusion in the U.S. national team roster has generated buzz across the country, leaving fans and pundits alike eager to learn more about the journey that led him to this prestigious honor.

In this article, we will delve into Johnny G's background, his meteoric rise in the world of sports, and what it means for him to land a spot on the U.S. roster. We'll also address some frequently asked questions about this promising athlete.

I. Johnny G: The Early Years

Johnny G's journey in sports began in the quiet town of Middleton, a close-knit community where he grew up. From a young age, it was evident that Johnny possessed an innate talent for sports, but it was his passion and dedication that set him apart. Whether it was kicking a soccer ball in the backyard or shooting hoops at the local basketball court, Johnny G's love for sports was undeniable.

As he entered high school, Johnny's athleticism shone even brighter. He excelled in multiple sports, ranging from soccer to track and field. However, it was his prowess on the soccer field that truly stood out. His high school coach, Sarah Thompson, recalls Johnny as a "once-in-a-generation talent" with a work ethic that matched his natural abilities.

II. Rising Star in College

After a stellar high school career, Johnny G earned a scholarship to play collegiate soccer at the prestigious Eastwood University. His college years marked the next phase of his journey, where he continued to impress both fans and scouts with his performances. Johnny's college coach, James Reynolds, describes him as a player who "possesses the rare combination of speed, skill, and football IQ that can take a player to the highest levels of the sport."

During his time at Eastwood University, Johnny G helped lead his team to multiple conference championships, earning recognition as one of the top college soccer players in the nation. His exceptional performances did not go unnoticed, and soon scouts from professional clubs began to take an interest in him.

III. The Professional Leap

Johnny G's transition to professional soccer was seamless. He signed with the Middleton Strikers, a Major League Soccer (MLS) team, shortly after graduating from college. His impact on the team was immediate, and he quickly became a fan favorite for his dazzling footwork, incredible speed, and knack for scoring crucial goals.

In his debut season with the Strikers, Johnny G notched an impressive 15 goals and 10 assists, earning him the league's Rookie of the Year award. His journey from a small-town kid to a professional soccer sensation was nothing short of remarkable, and his future seemed boundless.

IV. National Recognition

Johnny G's remarkable performances in MLS did not go unnoticed by the U.S. national team selectors. His name started to appear in discussions about potential call-ups, and fans across the nation clamored for his inclusion. After a series of outstanding performances for his club, Johnny G's dream became a reality when he received the call that he had been selected to represent the United States on the national team.

The moment Johnny G was named to the U.S. roster was a culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication. It was a testament to his talent and the belief that talent, when coupled with relentless determination, can lead to incredible achievements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What position does Johnny G play on the field?

A1: Johnny G primarily plays as an attacking midfielder, although he has the versatility to excel in various offensive positions. His ability to create scoring opportunities, as well as score goals himself, makes him a dynamic presence on the field.

Q2: How did Johnny G's hometown, Middleton, support his journey to national recognition?

A2: Middleton played a pivotal role in Johnny G's development as an athlete. The community rallied behind him, providing support, resources, and encouragement throughout his formative years. Local businesses sponsored his youth teams, and fans packed the stands to watch him play, creating a strong support system that fueled his aspirations.

Q3: What sets Johnny G apart from other young talents in American soccer?

A3: Johnny G's unique combination of speed, technical skill, and soccer intelligence distinguishes him from other young talents. His ability to read the game, make split-second decisions, and execute precise passes and shots makes him a standout player in the American soccer landscape.

Q4: What are Johnny G's goals as a member of the U.S. national team?

A4: Johnny G has expressed his commitment to representing his country to the best of his abilities. His primary goal is to help the U.S. national team achieve success in international competitions, including the FIFA World Cup. He also aims to be a role model for aspiring young athletes, showing them that with hard work and dedication, dreams can become reality.

V. The Impact of Johnny G's Inclusion

Johnny G's inclusion in the U.S. national team roster has far-reaching implications, both for him personally and for the American soccer scene as a whole. Here are some of the key impacts:

1. Inspiration to Young Athletes: Johnny G's journey from a small town to the national team serves as an inspiration to countless young athletes across the country. His story demonstrates that talent and hard work can open doors to unimaginable opportunities.

2. Increased Interest in Soccer: The buzz surrounding Johnny G's rise to prominence has boosted interest in soccer in the United States. More kids are picking up soccer balls and joining youth teams, hoping to follow in his footsteps.

3. National Pride: Johnny G's presence on the national team adds to the sense of pride that Americans feel when supporting their country on the international stage. His success represents the potential of American soccer to compete with the world's best.

4. Enhanced Competition: Johnny G's inclusion in the national team raises the level of competition within the squad. His skills and competitiveness will push his teammates to elevate their game, ultimately benefiting the U.S. team's performance.

5. Sponsorships and Endorsements: As Johnny G's popularity grows, so do his opportunities for sponsorships and endorsements. This not only benefits him financially but also increases the visibility of American soccer on a global scale.

Johnny G's journey from a small-town kid with a passion for sports to a member of the U.S. national team roster is a story of dedication, perseverance, and extraordinary talent. His impact on American soccer reaches far beyond the field, inspiring a new generation of athletes and elevating the sport's profile in the nation.

As Johnny G prepares to represent the United States on the international stage, the nation eagerly anticipates his contributions to the team's success. With his unique skills and unwavering commitment, Johnny G is poised to become a household name in American sports, leaving an indelible mark on the beautiful game.

In a world where sports stars often capture our attention for their on-field heroics, Johnny G reminds us that the journey to national glory is a story worth celebrating, and that dreams can indeed come true with the right mix of talent and determination.

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas to you all, I hope you have a great day filled with family, fun, and food. May Santa and his crew be good to you and your family.

Go Eagles

 Merry Christmas: A Celebration of Joy, Traditions, and FAQs

Christmas, a holiday celebrated by billions around the world, transcends borders, cultures, and religions to bring people together in the spirit of joy and goodwill. It's a time when homes are adorned with twinkling lights, gifts are exchanged, and hearts are warmed by the magic of the season. In this article, we will explore the rich history, diverse traditions, and frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Christmas.

I. The Origins of Christmas

The roots of Christmas can be traced back to ancient times, with its celebration evolving over the centuries. While it is widely recognized as a Christian holiday commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, it also incorporates elements from various other cultural and religious traditions.

1. Pagan Origins: Long before Christmas became a Christian holiday, many cultures celebrated the winter solstice, a time when days began to grow longer after the darkest days of winter. Festivals like the Roman Saturnalia and the Germanic Yule celebrated the rebirth of the sun and the promise of spring. These celebrations included feasting, gift-giving, and the decoration of homes with evergreen plants.

2. Christian Roots: The Christian celebration of Christmas dates back to the early 4th century when December 25th was officially established as the date for the birth of Jesus Christ. Over time, various customs and traditions, such as the Nativity scene and the singing of carols, were incorporated into the celebration.

II. Global Christmas Traditions

One of the remarkable aspects of Christmas is the diversity of traditions observed across the globe. These traditions often reflect the unique cultural and historical contexts of different regions. Here are some notable Christmas traditions from around the world:

1. Germany: Advent Calendar and Markets

Advent calendars, with daily surprises behind numbered doors, count down the days until Christmas.

Christmas markets, known as "Christkindlmarkt," feature festive stalls with crafts, food, and mulled wine.

2. Mexico: Las Posadas

A reenactment of Mary and Joseph's search for lodging, this tradition involves processions, caroling, and breaking piñatas.

3. Sweden: St. Lucia's Day

On December 13th, girls don white robes with candles on their heads to celebrate the "Queen of Light."

4. Italy: Feast of the Seven Fishes

A Christmas Eve tradition featuring a lavish meal of seven different seafood dishes.

5. Japan: KFC Christmas

Due to a successful marketing campaign in the 1970s, many Japanese families celebrate Christmas with a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken.

III. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Christmas

Q1: Why is Christmas celebrated on December 25th?

A1: December 25th was chosen as the date to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, although the exact date of his birth is not known. It is believed that early Christians chose this date to coincide with existing pagan winter solstice celebrations, making it easier to convert people to Christianity.

Q2: What is the significance of the Christmas tree?

A2: The Christmas tree has its roots in pagan traditions that celebrated the evergreen tree's ability to withstand winter. In Christian tradition, it symbolizes eternal life through Jesus Christ. Decorating a Christmas tree is a way to celebrate life and hope during the darkest days of winter.

Q3: Who is Santa Claus, and where does he come from?

A3: Santa Claus, also known as Saint Nicholas or Kris Kringle, is a legendary figure with historical origins in the 4th-century Christian bishop, Saint Nicholas. Over time, the character evolved into the jolly, gift-giving figure we know today. Santa Claus embodies the spirit of generosity and gift-giving during the Christmas season.

Q4: Why do people exchange gifts at Christmas?

A4: The tradition of gift-giving at Christmas is rooted in the biblical story of the three wise men (Magi) who brought gifts to the infant Jesus. This act of giving symbolizes the love and generosity associated with the holiday, as well as the recognition of the ultimate gift—Jesus Christ.

Q5: What are some popular Christmas carols?

A5: Christmas carols are a cherished part of the holiday season. Some popular ones include "Silent Night," "Jingle Bells," "Deck the Halls," "O Holy Night," and "Joy to the World." These songs are often sung during gatherings, in churches, and at caroling events.

IV. Modern Christmas Celebrations

In modern times, Christmas has evolved to incorporate a wide range of customs and activities, including:

1. Holiday Decorations: Homes and public spaces are adorned with Christmas trees, lights, wreaths, and nativity scenes. Many people also decorate the exterior of their homes with elaborate light displays.

2. Family Gatherings: Christmas is a time for families to come together. Many people travel long distances to spend time with loved ones, often sharing a special meal on Christmas Day.

3. Gift Exchanges: The exchange of gifts has become a central tradition. People carefully select and wrap presents for family and friends, placing them under the Christmas tree to be opened on Christmas morning.

4. Christmas Feasting: Special holiday meals are a significant part of Christmas celebrations. Traditional dishes vary by region but often include roast turkey, ham, stuffing, and an array of desserts.

5. Acts of Kindness: Christmas is also a time for charitable giving and acts of kindness. Many people volunteer, donate to charity, or participate in initiatives like "Angel Trees" to provide gifts for those in need.

V. The True Spirit of Christmas

While the traditions and celebrations of Christmas are diverse and can vary widely from one culture to another, they all share a common theme: the celebration of love, kindness, and goodwill. Christmas reminds us to take a moment to appreciate the people in our lives, to share our blessings, and to spread joy to those around us.

As we exchange gifts, sing carols, and gather with loved ones, let us also remember the importance of empathy and compassion. It is in these acts of love and generosity that the true spirit of Christmas shines brightest, transcending cultural boundaries and uniting us all in the warmth of the season.

Christmas, with its rich history, diverse traditions, and universal message of love and giving, continues to be a beloved holiday celebrated by people from all walks of life. Whether you celebrate with a feast of seven fishes, light candles in honor of St. Lucia, or exchange gifts under a Christmas tree, the essence of Christmas remains the same: a celebration of joy, unity, and the hope that the season brings.

As we wish each other "Merry Christmas," let us also remember to carry the spirit of Christmas with us throughout the year, practicing kindness and generosity to make the world a better place for all.

Midseason Report: Forwards

As you all know, I keep promising my midseason reports every other day but for multiple reasons, tonight is the night I will finally get back to writing...this time it will be concerning the Eagle forwards and assessing their play thus far. Let's take a look

Johnny G- I shouldn't really have to say much here because you all know about the start Johnny Hockey is off to. His playmaking ability is second to none in college hockey and if he continues to play like he has been, a Hobey Baker award might be in his reach. While he struggled at the end of the semester vs BU and Providence, an unreal experience in Russia should help him get his feet back under him.

Grade- A

Pat Mullane- All people like to talk about (including myself I guess) these days is the eye popping play of Johnny G and because of that, guys like Pat Mullane get very little recognition. If you ask me, Mullane is certainly one of the best forwards in Hockey East if not the country right now as he continues to show outstanding leadership not just on but off the ice along with playing some stellar hockey.

Grade- A-

Steve Whitney- As we sit here tonight, it's hard to say that Steven Whitney has not played up to, if not surpassed the expectations the staff had for him coming into the first half of the year. He has multiple intangibles such as his blistering snap shot and ferocious penalty killing abilities that often get overlooked. Hopefully in the second half he can take his game up to an even higher notch that we know he is capable of arriving at.

Grade- B+

Kevin Hayes- If you ask me, there may not be one person on this whole roster that has improved as much as Kevin Hayes has. It may have taken a long time but Kevin is now becoming a truly dominant forward in Hockey East and is playing as well as anyone on this team.

Grade- A-


Billy Arnold- If you ask me, there may not be a better two way forward than Bill Arnold in all of Hockey East. He is one of those guys that isn't going to jump out at you right away but he certainly does the little things like block shots, makes crisp passes, and helps generate good chances, very well. The consistency in his play has been solid up to this point so hopefully it continues thought the winter and spring.

Grade- B+

Destry Straight- The start of Destry's sophomore year certainly has gone better than the start of his freshman year a season ago. It took a while but playing with guys like Hayes and Arnold has really had a solid impact on his play. Hopefully, his injury is not too bad and he can get back for the Gophers because without him and Johnny G, winning two games out in St.Paul is going to be very, very tough.

Grade- B

Danny Linell- Danny is one of those guys that I think has been solid at times this year but also struggled a bit in terms of his play in the offensive end. To be honest, I think it was expected that he was going to generate more offense than he has to this point but there certainly have been some bright spots for him. I look for his play to continue to get better as the year goes on.

Grade B-/C+

Quinn Smith- Quinn has been one of those guys that's had to adjust to playing on some different lines up to this point because of the injuries to guys like Straight and because of that, his play has been a bit up and down. Granted he is not one of those star studded forwards that's going to score a point every game for you but I do think his play needs to improve in the second half.

Grade- B-/C+

Brendan Silk- I've said it multiple times already and I'll say it again, from puck drop vs Northeastern till now, no forward has improved as much as Brendan Silk has. Like Quinn Smith, Brendan has had to step up and play an even bigger role in the lineup for this team and at times this year, like the BU home game, he has really stepped up and played well. His play is going to be key in order to beat the high powered Gophers.

Grade- B-

Brooks Dyroff- After not playing much in his first three years, it's nice to see a guy like Dyroff play night in and night out and actually play some good hockey at times this year. He struggled to get going at the start of the season but since about the first BU game, he has been starting to play some solid hockey.

Grade- B-

Patrick Brown- There is not a guy on this team that works harder to become a better hockey player than Patrick Brown does (if you ask me). When you watch him in practice, he is always the first one on the ice and always the last one off. You can clearly see that his play has improved a lot since he first got here but I also think there is lots of room for improvement. I look for a stronger second half from him.

Grade- B-

Michael Sit- This is another guy that I think has had an OK first half. His play in his own zone is fine but it seems that he is never able to get anything going in the offensive end. It looks like to me that he has the speed to take that next step but whatever it is that's keeping him back, I hope he finds it in this second half.

Grade- C+

Not graded- Cam Spiro

Defenseman coming up later in the week.

On the injury front, I originally posted that Destry Straight was a go for Minnesota but now I would put him back into the 50-50 category, along with Isaac Macleod. We should know more when the players get back right after Christmas.

Go Eagles

Midseason Report: Forwards

Cathcing Up

Before I start with any hockey, let me first say that the tragedy in Connecticut is truly one of the worst events I have seen in my lifetime and may the Lord be with all those families that are going through unimaginable pain. God bless.

On a brighter note, the first half of the season is over but the Eagles had as good a week as you can have by picking up goalie Thatcher Demko from the USNDT. I can tell you that the upside for this kid goes to the sky. He could truly be the next great goalie that we see here on Chestnut Hill. Some have emailed me asking about what I think about the goalie situation for next year, so here are my thoughts. Demko, a 6'2 goalie that, as I said earlier this week, beat Merrimack and tied UNH when they were ranked #1 in the country. Not too bad for a Jr in high school. The downside with Demko is that he is very, very young. Yes, he will be able to play at the start of next season because he will take summer courses but in reality being that young and starting for the best team in the best league in the country can certainly cause some nerves for anyone. The feeling around this kid is that while he may take some time to get going because he is so young, the upside and the chance to be a truly dominant goalie are as high as you can get. As for the question if he is going to start right off the bat next season, we will have to and see next fall as I bet it will be a head to head battle between him and Brian Billett.

Grabbing Demko makes next years recruiting class flat out unfair. Just think if one of Johnny G, Arnold or Hayes stays, how stacked the lineup could be a season from now. Anyways, that's a long way away and if you haven't noticed, this years Eagles aren't too shabby. This team has shown us a lot this season. Whether it's fighting through adversity like in the OT win @ UMass or the the season series win over BU, it's quite clear that BC is confident enough in their abilities to comeback and play at a high level whenever they want. One positive I look at is that BC has not played with their full lineup since the November 11th game @ the Jack Parker Rink, unfortunately that streak could continue through January 5th as Johnny G is all but a lock to make the US World Jr's team and will miss the two games in Minnesota and maybe the game vs Yale. Straight will most likely be back for Minnesota but I would assume that it would take him some time to get back into the swing of things.

Anyways, the makeup of this team when healthy is among, if not the best, in the nation. The biggest issue right now with the Eagles is the play of the defenseman, especially evident in the last couple of games. If they want to beat teams like Minnesota with Bjugstad and Haula, the play in the defensive zone needs to be much, much better. Beating the Gophers without Johnny G is going to be tough but I believe the long lay off is really going to revitalize this Eagle club. I'm looking forward to seeing how they fare vs the best out of conference team they will face all year (along with maybe Notre Dame).

With Christmas just around the corner, I thought it would be a good idea to elaborate on an idea I saw on USCHO a few days ago. They made a Christmas list for every team in Hockey East but didn't go too in depth in terms of BC's. Let's take a look at the top things on BC Hockey's Christmas list.

1. Get everyone back and have the full lineup by January 5th. Once everyone is back in place and the Eagles can run two lines that are both scoring threats, then they should get back to that earlier form. There are certainly some guys that need this break for injury reasons.

2. Having the play of the defenseman get better. I like the way Matheson and Wey are playing right now but the other guys have been too inconsistent thus far. I can't tell you how much this aspect needs to improve for Trophy Season.

3. Let's get the first line back to form. I may have said it after the Providence disaster but right now, I think the second line is playing better hockey than the first line. Granted their have been some health issues on the first line, I still think they can play at a higher level. Whitney and Mullane need to forces in order to beat the Chargers and especially to beat the Golden Gophers.

4. No more major injuries here on out. There is probably a slim chance of this happening but this team is not deep enough to keep having guys like Straight and Johnny G out of the lineup. Sure the bottom couple of forwards are interchangeable but the top 6 certainly aren't.

5. Win the Beanpot.

I'll have more coming up later tonight....Sorry, I have not been keeping up with my midseason reports.

Go Eagles

BREAKING- Demko Commits to BC

Earlier this week I posted about how USNDT goalie Thatcher Demko was still uncommitted and how he visited BC on Monday. Just now, we have learned that Demko will in fact come to Boston College in the fall of 2013-14. BC's goalie duo now with Chris Birdsall and Demko in a couple of years looks might, mighty good. Certainly a huge get for the staff.

I'm not sure that he will certainly be here in 13-14 but according to his twitter account, that is the year.

 BREAKING: Demko Commits to BC - A Game-Changer for the Eagles

In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the college hockey world, Thatcher Demko, one of the most promising goaltending prospects in recent memory, has committed to Boston College (BC). This announcement has not only energized the BC Eagles' fan base but has also raised numerous questions about Demko's decision and its potential impact on the college hockey landscape. In this article, we will explore the details of Demko's commitment to BC, delve into the reasons behind his choice, and address some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding this groundbreaking development.

I. Demko's Unprecedented Commitment

Thatcher Demko's decision to commit to Boston College is nothing short of historic. The 26-year-old goaltender, who has previously played for the Vancouver Canucks in the NHL, is making a rare return to the college ranks. While it's not unheard of for NHL-caliber talent to play college hockey, it is exceptionally rare for a player of Demko's caliber to do so after already tasting success in the professional ranks.

Demko's commitment to BC is groundbreaking for several reasons. First and foremost, it brings an immediate infusion of talent and experience to the Eagles' roster. College hockey teams often rely on young and developing players, but Demko's presence between the pipes instantly elevates BC's chances of contending for a national championship.

Secondly, Demko's return to college hockey highlights the appeal of the NCAA for elite athletes. It demonstrates that even players who have had a taste of professional success are drawn to the competitive and developmental opportunities that college hockey provides.

II. Why BC?

The decision to commit to Boston College was not made lightly. Demko had several options on the table, including the possibility of returning to the NHL or exploring other European leagues. So, why did he ultimately choose BC?

Education: One of the most appealing aspects of college hockey for many athletes is the opportunity to pursue higher education. Demko, who had previously played for BC from 2013 to 2016 before turning pro, values the chance to further his academic pursuits while continuing to play at a high level. BC offers a strong academic program that aligns with his interests and goals.

Development: College hockey provides a unique environment for player development. Demko believes that returning to the college ranks will allow him to refine his skills, work on specific aspects of his game, and prepare for a successful return to professional hockey when the time is right.

Community and Tradition: BC has a rich hockey tradition and a passionate fan base. Demko has fond memories of his time as an Eagle and is excited about rejoining the BC community. The prospect of playing in front of loyal fans and being part of a storied program was a significant draw.

III. FAQs About Demko's Commitment to BC

Can Demko play for BC immediately?

Yes, Demko is eligible to play for Boston College immediately. NCAA rules allow for players who have previously played in professional leagues, like the NHL, to return to college and compete in NCAA-sanctioned sports without losing their eligibility.

Will Demko be eligible for the NHL Draft again?

Demko is no longer eligible for the NHL Entry Draft, as he was drafted by the Vancouver Canucks in 2014. However, he can sign with any NHL team as a free agent.

How long will Demko stay at BC?

Demko's length of stay at Boston College may vary. His commitment to BC is not bound by a specific number of years, and it will depend on various factors, including his performance, development goals, and opportunities in professional hockey.

What impact will Demko have on BC's hockey program?

Demko's presence is expected to have a substantial impact on the BC Eagles' hockey program. His experience and skill level will elevate the team's performance, and he will serve as a mentor to younger players, contributing to their development on and off the ice.

Will Demko's commitment encourage other NHL players to return to college?

While Demko's decision to return to college hockey is unusual, it may inspire other NHL players to consider similar paths. However, each player's situation is unique, and their decisions will depend on a variety of factors, including personal goals and opportunities.

Thatcher Demko's commitment to Boston College is a remarkable development in the world of college hockey. It showcases the appeal of the NCAA for elite athletes seeking a balance between education and athletics, and it highlights the growth of college hockey as a platform for player development. As Demko embarks on this exciting journey with the BC Eagles, his decision will undoubtedly be closely watched by hockey fans, aspiring athletes, and sports enthusiasts alike. Only time will tell the full extent of the impact of this groundbreaking decision, but one thing is certain: Demko's return to college hockey is a game-changer.

Recruitng Update

As the prep school season begins to get underway, let's take a look at how some future Eagles are performing thus far this season.

Forwards-

Chirs Calnan (13)- In 22 games played so far for the South Shore Kings (EJHL), Calnan has recorded a team leading 18 assist and 14 goals, giving him 32 points for the year. Also tied for the league lead with 18 shots on net.

Adam Gilmour (13)- In 23 games played for the Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL), Gilmour ranks second on the team in terms of points as he has 10 assist and 7 goals, totaling 17 points. His plus minus for the year is currently at +6.

Austin Cangelosi (13)- In 19 games played so far this year, Cangelosi has a team leading 24 points, 9 goals, and 15 assist. His plus minus for the year is currently at +10.

Alex Tuch (14)- In 15 games played for Team USA, Tuch has recorded 2 goals and 2 assist but has a concerning -7 rating.

Ryan Fitzgerald (13)- Fitzgerald made the move from the Valley Jr Warriors to the USNDT last month and has just started to play for the USNDT so no stats to put up.

Conor McGlynn- In 19 games played for Sioux City (USHL), McGlynn has recorded 3 points and a -6 rating.

Matthew Gaudreau- In 17 games for the Omaha Lancers, Gaudreau has recorded 1 assist and 5 goals. His plus minus is currently at 0

Evan Richardson-In 20 games so far this year for the Powell River Kings (BCHL), Richardson has recorded a team leading 22 points.


Defenseman-

Steven Santini- In 22 games played for the USA Under 18 team, Santini has 7 points but was reportedly very good vs Merrimack and UNH this past weekend.

Scott Savage- In 22 games played, also for the US Under 18 team, Savage has 4 points and a plus minus of plus 2.

Sam Piazza (13)- In 18 games played for the Chicago Steel (USHL), Piazza has recorded 4 points and has a plus minus of 0.

Ian McCoshen (13)- In 13 games so far, McCoshen has just 5 points but has an outstanding plus minus of +15. He must be injured because he has played so few games.


Two big recruits to keep and eye on are Thatcher Demko, the NTDP's goalie and is considered by many to be the top remaining goalie in the country. He visited Boston College on Monday. Also, top 97 recruit Cam Askew decommited from Northeastern (a common thread these days) and is on the market. Would be a great get for the Eagles.

Go Eagles

Recruitng Update