Coulee Region defenseman Rutkowski makes NCAA DI commitment

July 27, 2015

The Coulee Region Chill, proud members of the North American Hockey League (NAHL), are pleased to announce that defenseman Joe Rutkowski has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey at Ferris State University.  The commitment is for the 2016-17 season.  Ferris State is a member of the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA).

 

“I am excited to announce my commitment to play D1 hockey at Ferris State University! Thanks to everyone who has helped me get there!” said Rutkowski on his Twitter feed.

 

Rutkowski, 18, completed his first season playing in the NAHL in 2014-15 for the Chill. The native of Crystal Lake, Illinois had a solid season in the league, appearing in 47 regular season games and recording 13 points (all assists). Rutkowski (5’9/150) also recorded one goal in five playoff games last season.

 

“Joe has worked tremendously hard to achieve his dream of playing NCAA Division I hockey,” said Chill head coach AJ Degenhardt. “He has grown a ton this past season with us and he has a bright future in the game. The Coulee Region staff could not be more excited to watch where his career goes and wish him the best of luck.”

 

Prior to playing for the Chill in the NAHL, Rutkowski played his Tier I Midget and Bantam hockey for the Chicago Mission. 

 

Rutkowski is the ninth player that played for the Chill in 2014-15 to make an NCAA Commitment.  Overall, he the 224th NAHL player from this past season to have made an NCAA commitment.