FORT FRANCES, Ont. – The three-time Superior International Junior Hockey League champion Fort Frances Lakers announced Monday that goaltender Pierce Dushenko and forward Christian Ripley have committed to attend school at Stevenson University in Maryland and play for the Mustangs men’s hockey program as they play their inaugural season in the ECAC West conference in 2016-17.
"Pierce carried a strong effort in the 2015 Dudley-Hewitt Cup into the 2016-17 season and was a major reason for our team having success again this season,” said Fort Frances head coach and general manager Wayne Strachan.
Strachan also offered these additional thoughts on 20-year-old netminder from Coquitlam, B.C., who won a combined 35 times in regular season and playoff action and was a CCM Hockey second team all-star.
“He is an athletic guy who moves well in the net,” added Strachan.
“His 28 regular season wins rank among the most in Lakers History. When he is focused and battling in net he gives you a chance to win hockey games."
As for the 20-year-old Ripley, who hails from Duluth, Minn., was fourth on the Lakers in scoring with 49 points on 25 goals and 24 assists.
He also added nine more points in 10 postseason outings, including three tallies.
"Christian was a player who took a little to adjust to the Jr. A game, but when he learned how to use his speed to his advantage he was a dangerous threat out on the ice,” stated Strachan.
“That speed enables him to be a solid 200-foot player and create space for his line mates," provided the SIJHL coach of the year.
"Christian was a big key for us in the second half into the playoffs and played some of his best hockey at that time."
"We are more than happy to have these two join the other six who have already made commitments and wish them the best of luck with their new team and school."
For more information on the Fort Frances Lakers, visit the club’s website at fortfranceslakers.com or on social media at twitter.com/FF_Lakers.
