The Winkler Flyers are proud to announce the commitment of defenseman James Richards to the NCAA Division 1 Niagara University hockey program.
Richards has put up 3 goals and 18 assists for 21 points in 53 games so far with your Winkler Flyers. Richards is an elite smooth skating puck moving defenseman with strong distributing and puck skills.
Richards talked about what lead him to Niagara University “I decided to commit to Niagara to be able to develop both as a player and person at a school with a very competitive hockey team and prestigious schooling. ”
“The Winkler Flyers provided me with an unbelievable support staff to be able to develop as a player and learn some very valuable life lessons. Learning what it takes to treat each day like a pro day in and day out really helped me to understand what it takes to get to the next level. ” Richards spoke on what the Flyers organization meant to him in taking this next step.
“James has taken great strides in his 200 foot play throughout the course of last season. His professionalism and buy-in to the daily process in all facets of development and how he carries himself has allowed him to thrive and earn this next opportunity. His skating and mobility allow him to beat the first forechecker when transitioning the puck, as well as close and contain quickly on the defensive side. His angling, stick detail and hardness in his defending continues to grow while his instincts and reads are correct in supporting his teammates in helping to generate offense. The ceiling and upside for Richy is high as he continues to develop and push himself. Congratulations to James and his family.” Said GM & Head Coach Justin Falk about Richards.
Richards talked about this past season. “Being able to play this past season and go on an unbelievable run was truly special. I’d like to thank the coaches for putting in the time and effort each day to make us players better. The support staff, being there to tape and treat the players to keep us playing. As well as the fans, we could not have done what we did this past season without the support of Winkler. We truly have the best fans out there!”
We’re proud of the effort you have put into hockey James, and we are excited for you and your family on this next step in your hockey career!
