The Boston Imperials Hockey Academy 18U at Matignon High School signed a pair of players on Tuesday.
The Imperials signed 2003-born defenseman Andre Ducharme, who spent last season with the Northern Cyclones 16U team.
“Ducharme does it all for the Cyclones organization,” said Neutral Zone scouts. “Despite being assigned to play D at the 14U level here, he still made a nice impact on this game. His balance on his edges and ability to protect the puck is advanced for his age: he looks like a much older player in this regard. Uses long limbs and a great push off stride to shed forecheckers and move right in on the net. His spin move is impressive as well; he is confident in his abilities offensively and it fuels his fire the more he succeeds. Ducharme is a great activator too, he lulls forecheckers to sleep by going half speed coming out of his own end and then he will pick a spot and turn on the burners leaving them in the dust.”
The Imperials also inked Will Woodruff, a 2003-born forward from New York. Woodruff was also with the Cyclones last season and had 13 goals and 17 assists in 21 games for the 16U team.
“Will is a quick player who likes to handle the puck and use his quick feet to beat defenders,” said NZ scouts. “He’s a smart player who reads the ice very well and will set up his teammates. He works hard in the offensive zone as he will get in on the forecheck and create havoc. “