FRASER, Mich. – Two Metro Jets players have earned call-ups to the NCDC as rookie forwards Nick Ceccarini and Conner Graham will head to the Connecticut Jr. Rangers this week.
The NCDC is the tuition-free, Tier II arm of the USPHL and the leader in college and NCAA Division I commitments.
Ceccarini, a Long Island, N.Y., native, is excited to get the opportunity at a chance to play close to home.
“The Jets bring out all the effort in me, which makes me dig deep and be the best hockey player I can be,” said Ceccarini. “I’m expecting to meet new players and practice to the best of my ability. I’m planning to work my tail off and attempting to play in the weekend games.”
This season, Ceccarini has recorded nine goals and 13 assists for 22 points through 39 games.
Graham gives all the credit to this advancement to the Jets as well.
“The Jets prepared me for this opportunity through the practices and workouts that we have to do daily,” said Graham, a Lake Orion native. “We also have a great coaching staff that has made me want to come to the rink wanting to get better and ready to work every day.
“In Connecticut, I’m expecting to meet new players and coaches. I am also going to work hard during the practices to get a chance to play in the games during the weekend.”
Through 40 games, Graham has posted 10 goals and 14 assists for 24 points.
Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville is banking on both players giving 110 percent this week.
“This is another great opportunity for our guys to play in a top league,” said Quenneville. “The NCDC leads the way in college placements and it’s great to see more top programs find interest in our players. After talking with the head coach (Jim Henkel), we were excited to hear about the opportunity for our guys. This is what it’s all about and I love that our program continues to get attention from top organizations. Best of luck to Conner and Nick.”
The Jr. Rangers play the South Shore Kings Friday at 5:15 p.m. and Saturday at 1:15 p.m.
All USPHL games are streamed on www.HockeyTV.com.
