January’s Commit list is a short one, as NCAA and Usport Universities are nearing a full roster. But rest assured, many are still holding a few spots open to see what the rest of the season may bring them. This month is highlighted by a couple of 3 ¾ stars as well as a French National. Congratulations to all athletes who have found their collegiate homes this month.
Izzy King – F (★★★3/4) – Commits to Union College ‘25
King is a fleet-footed forward with Buckingham Brown and Nichols School and the East Coast Wizards. The Bedford, Massachusetts player still has some time to grow her game, as she will join the Dutchwomen in 2025. But when she throws on the Union Gamet and White, King will be looking to help Union to their first NCAA tournament in history.
NZ Scouts say: “King has quick feet that allow her to win puck battles and fight for possession of the puck. We like her board play and how she can come up with loose pucks. When she has the puck she uses her quickness to buy time and make a move to the net or find a teammate for a pass.”
Addison Andre – F (★★★3/4) – Commits to Franklin-Pierce University ‘25
Whether at Roseville, East Ridge, Sout St. Paul, or Chisago Lakes Andre has consistently played at a high level for Minnesota High School hockey. The ‘07 forward will, however, take a change of scenery and head to New Hampshire when she joins Franklin Pierce University in 2025.
NZ Scouts say: “Andre is quick, smart, and crafty with the puck. She knows how to create scoring chances and works for control of the puck. She finds her lane to the net and can control the puck in and out of traffic. She is a fighter who has elite instincts and anticipation.”
Scarlett Jones – F (★★★) – Commits to University of Toronto ‘24
The 5’8” left-handed forward from Vernon, BC has spent these past two seasons playing for the Delta Hockey Academy and represented her Province in the Canadian Nationals. Next season she will jump across the country to begin her collegiate career when she looks to add some scoring touch to the Varsity Blues. Jones will join a very committed and competitive squad that has 19 conference championships, 11 Usport Tournament appearances, and one Usport Tournament Championship.
NZ Scouts say: “Jones is good at finding shooting lanes and getting her shot off quickly. She adds scoring ability which is a direct result of her quick shot and ability to get to scoring areas. She also adds good passes to her repertoire, making it tough for defenders to figure out her next move.”
Nahvin Bal – (D) – Commits to Toronto Metropolitan University ‘24
Bal has been a defender for the Fraser Valley Rush for the last two seasons. In each of those two seasons, she has helped lead her team to the BCEHL Playoffs as well as the Esso Cup. The Surrey, BC player will head cross country next season to join the TMU team in a quest to keep the playoff steak alive.
NZ Scouts say: “Bal is a technically sound, agile, and quick skater who uses her speed to rush the puck and create offensive opportunities. She has good patience and decision-making in the defensive zone, helping her team on the breakout.”
Lea Berger (D) – Commits to University of Montreal ‘24
Berger hails from Mulhouse, France, and will be crossing the pond to play in the French-speaking Province of Quebec, for the University of Montreal Carabins. The 5’10” defender will join a roster will she will be the second French national on the squad.
Alexie Palchinski (F) – Commits to St. Thomas University ‘24
Dayle Chinnick (D) – Commits to Toronto Metropolitan University ‘24Felicia Frank (D) – Commits to Quinnipiac University ‘24