DANBURY, CT– Danbury Jr. Hat Tricks captain Shane Murphy has officially announced his commitment to join the Utica College Pioneers (D-III, UCHC) for the 2021-22 season. Murphy becomes the fifth Jr. Hat Tricks player to announce his college commitment during this season and the 14th Jr. Hat Trick to earn a spot on a collegiate roster.
“We’re excited to welcome Shane to Pioneer Nation,” commented Utica head coach Gary Heenan. “He’s a hard-working, ultra-competitive player with strong hands and a heavy shot.”
Murphy, a ’00-born forward, is heading back home, as Utica College’s campus is mere miles from his hometown of Oriskany, New York. After graduating from Trinity-Pawling High School, Murphy played two seasons in the North American Hockey League, accumulating 37 points in 88 games. He ranks seventh on the team in scoring this season with 11 goals and 12 assists, including six powerplay points.
Murphy inherited the captaincy midway through the season, following the departure of former captain Kyle Gudme to the University of St. Thomas in January. His veteran leadership proved invaluable to the team on and off the ice, leading the charge for the Jr. Hat Tricks as they remained in the Robertson Cup Playoff picture up through the final week of the regular season.
“We love that he developed his leadership skills as the captain of the Hat Tricks this year,” Heenan added.
“I am very excited and look forward to playing for Utica College back home in front of family and friends,” commented Murphy. “Being part of the hockey program there will be special as I have watched it grow and become successful since I was a kid. I am expecting to get a great education while working with a very dedicated and committed group that is looking to win Championships.”
The Jr. Hat Tricks will wrap up their regular season with a three-game tripleheader this weekend in Johnstown against the Tomahawks. Live streaming will be available on HockeyTV. Registration for the Danbury Jr. Hat Tricks’ Pre-Draft Tryout Camp is now open. Click HERE for more information.