Yet another recruit has committed to becoming a Terrier.
Canadian defenseman Ryan O’Connell announced via Twitter on Wednesday that he will suit up for head coach David Quinn’s side. The 17-year-old is expected to arrive on campus for the 2018-19 season.
Honoured to announce my commitment to Boston University! Thanks to family, coaches, and SAC for helping me get to where I am today!#terrier
— Ryan O'Connell (@RyannOconnell) August 3, 2016
The 6-foot-1 blueliner last played for Saint Andrews College in Aurora, Ontario. O’Connell totaled 31 points on four goals and 27 assists in 55 games during their 2015-16 CAHS season, earning a plus/minus rating of 14.
Before that, the left-handed shot was a member of the Ottawa Jr. 67s AAA hockey club for three seasons. He tallied 56 points in 74 games, and helped the team to an OEMBHL championship in 2013 and an OEBHL title in 2014.
O’Connell appears to be the first defenseman recruited for the 2018-19 season. He joins center Jake Wise and forwards Jack DeBoer and Tyler Weiss as 2018 commits to BU. O’Connell is NHL draft eligible as early as 2017.
Big congrats to #24 DMan Ryan O'Connell on his commitment to @TerrierHockey much deserved, bright future ahead https://t.co/mqOXZe2xzF
— St. Andrew’s College Hockey (@sachockey1899) August 3, 2016
Congrats and welcome, Ryan! Does anyone know much about the competitiveness of these Canadian leagues in which he has played? Are they at about the same level as the USHL or other US junior leagues?
Glenn — I believe the CAHS is similar to New England prep school in terms of level of competition. However, O’Connell is slated to play in the USHL at Des Moines this and next season, so it’ll be a significant jump for him.
Congrats and welcome future terrier
Thanks FOH! Yes, we will learn a lot more this coming season. I am very optimistic and trusting of our staff and their ability to evaluate talent. I get the feeling that Ryan has a good two-way game.
Brandon Fortunato will transfer to Quinnipiac. From Harvard to BU to the Q. What is he thinking? His chances of going to the NHL are slim and none.
I agree this coaching staff is doing a fantastic job in bringing in the best talent. This freshman class will rival any class bu has ever brought in. The best thing about them is they are already gelling. They are mature beyond their years. This season will be a special one. The depth this team will have at every position should be frightening to opposing teams. Go terriers??