SOO THUNDERBIRDS JR. A HOCKEY CLUB
Media Update
Release date: Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Thunderbirds’ Radke commits to Colorado College
SAULT STE. MARIE — A second member of the 2014-15 Soo Thunderbirds has made a commitment to play NCAA Division 1 hockey.
The Thunderbirds organization is proud to announce that NOJHL 2nd team all star defenseman David Radke has made his commitment to play for Coach Mike Haviland at Colorado College beginning next season.
“I am thrilled to have made my commitment to Colorado College,”stated Radke.
“The school has a long distinguished legacy of excellence and I’m excited to be a part of it next season,” offered the T-Birds blueliner. I am anxious to return to school and further my education and will be forever grateful to my Thunderbird teammates, the coaches and management for these last three years. I have been fortunate to learn from the great coaching staff of Coach Smith, Maunu, Rebek and Brick whom have helped guide me as a player and improve in all areas. Sault Ste Marie has been a great second home to me and I am thankful for so many great relationships,” added Radke.
The Orinda, Calif., native is playing his third and final season with the Thunderbirds.
The alternate captain of the Thunderbirds was a selection of Team NOJHL at the Central Canada Cup held in Toronto in December where he first caught of the eye of the Colorado coaching staff.
In three seasons with the NOJHL’s Soo Thunderbirds Radke has played in a Dudley-Hewitt Cup and has been part of back-to-back regular season championships.
Radke becomes the second defenseman this season to announce his commitment joining Owen Headrick, who back in October, announced his commitment to play Division 1 hockey for the Lake Superior State Lakers.
NOJHL coach of the year Jordan Smith had high praise for the veteran rearguard.
“This opportunity is very deserving for David and we couldn’t be more excited for him and his family, said Smith. “
“For David to be able to attend such a prestigious school such as Colorado College and continue his career is a testament to his work both on and off the ice, offered the Sault Ste. Marie coach.
“David’s excellent play certainly opened some eyes at the Central Canada Cup. Team NOJHL had a tremendous tournament and his contributions there along with his strong play all season certainly played a big role in achieving this accomplishment.”
Colorado College is a member of the National Collegiate Hockey Conference under Coach Haviland who as an Assistant Coach with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2010 when they captured the Stanley Cup.
The Soo Thunderbirds organization would like to congratulate David and his family on this great achievement and wish him well both on the ice and in the classroom next season at Colorado College.
