Springfield forward Villegas makes NCAA DI commitment

February 6, 2019

The Springfield Jr. Blues of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are pleased to announce that forward Caden Villegas has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for Union College for the 2021-22 season.

 

The 5’8/176 lbs. native of Plano, Texas is in his first season in the NAHL and has recorded nine points (4 goals, 5 assists) in 32 games for the Jr. Blues so far this season. Additionally, Villegas notched one assist in six games while being called up by the Central Illinois Flying Aces of the USHL. 

 

“Proud to announce my commitment to play Division 1 hockey at Union College! I want to say thank you to my family, God, teammates, and coaches for supporting me along the way. #Dutchmen,” said Villegas on Twitter.

 

Last season, Villegas, 17, tallied 25 points in 26 games for the Dallas Stars U16 team. 

 

“Caden is a phenomenal young athlete with a strong work ethic," said Jr. Blues head coach Tyler Rennette. "He is an exemplary student athlete both on and off the ice and will be an effective player at the next level."

 

Union College is located in Schenectady, New York and they play in the ECAC hockey conference. The Dutchmen are coached by Rick Bennett and have a history of cultivating professional caliber players, most notably defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere and goaltender Keith Kinkaid.