Bandits forward Frank Dichiara commits to Princeton

The St. Louis Bandits, proud members of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are pleased to announce that rookie forward Frank Dichiara has announced his commitment to play NCAA Division I Hockey for Princeton University of the Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference (ECAC).

Dichiara, 18, who hails from Ronkonkoma, New York, had a tremendous rookie season with the Bandits.  He was third in team scoring with 51 points (23 goals, 28 assists) in 59 games played.  The 6’2/215 lbs. forward helped the Bandits win the Midwest Division regular season and playoff titles and a Runner-Up finish in the Robertson Cup National Championship game.  He registered eight points in 12 playoff games.

Dichiara also represented the NAHL 18U Selects Team at the 2012 NAHL Top Prospects Tournament in Troy, Michigan back in February.  Dichiara was also named to the 2011-12 NAHL All-Rookie 1st Team for his accomplishments this season.

“I thought Frank had a lot of determination from the start,” said Bandits head coach Jeff Brown.  “He came in and right off the bat, he worked hard, paid his dues and put a lot of time and energy into becoming a better hockey player.  He was one of the youngest players on the team and worked his way up to be a top six forward.  He has great hockey sense, size and is a gifted player, so we are very happy for him.”

As for the dream season for Dichiara and the Bandits, which fell one overtime goal short of a National Championship, he said he has no regrets and enjoyed his time playing for St. Louis in the NAHL.  “I learned a lot from Coach Brown because he gave me the chance to show what I had and does a great job at developing and motivating his players,” said Dichiara.  “Playing in the NAHL, and especially the Top Prospects Tournament and Robertson Cup, was a great experience.  It really gave me the opportunity to showcase my skills and develop, and I can’t thank the Bandits and the league enough for the chance to do so.”