Black Bears goaltender Lepak makes NCAA DI Commitment

The Maryland Black Bears of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are proud to announce that goaltender Owen Lepak has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for Western Michigan University in the NCHC.

Lepak, 18, played his first season of junior hockey with the Maryland Black Bears, appearing in 27 regular season games, posting a 18-8-1 record, including three shutouts, maintaining a 2.18 goals against average and a save percentage of .913.

As the East Division Champions, the Clarkston, MI native stood tall between the pipes for 11 Robertson Cup Playoff games, with a postseason record of 8-3-0, including a shutout against the Maine Nordiques on May 4th. While in Blaine, MN for the Robertson Cup Championship event, Lepak made a season high of 46 saves during a 6-2 victory over the Minot Minotauros, resulting in a sweep of the Minotauros to send the Black Bears to the Championship game. 

With this season’s success, Lepak was nominated by the North American Hockey League for the league’s Rookie of the Year award and was selected as the All-East Division Rookie of the Year. 

“Owen has the mindset, work ethic, and skills sets of a professional. He is extremely competitive, and made quite an impact in the NAHL while in Maryland. Congratulations to Owen and his family, we couldn’t be prouder of this kid. Western Michigan is getting a very talented and driven individual, “ stated Black Bears Head Coach Clint Mylymok. 

Lepak is the 12h player to commit for the Black Bears this season. 

Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list