February 20, 2007

Pizzo to Clarkson

Hooksett, NH - New Hampshire Jr. Monarchs defensemen Tom Pizzo has committed to Clarkson University for the fall of 2007. The second year defender has been having a great season and is arguably one of the best skaters in the EJHL. In addition to his skating he enjoys playing a physical game and jumping up into the offense. "Tom has been an absolute pleasure to coach this year," stated Associate Head Coach Bob Corkum. "He is the epitome of a team player. He comes to the rink everyday with enthusiasm and the desire to get better and make those around him better." Tom will do anything we ask of him as a coaching staff, he has been blessed with N.H.L. skating ability that allows him to join rushes up ice and not get caught. I have seen a great improvement in his decision making ability over the course of the year and am sure he will have an outstanding college career."

"Clarkson University is a perfect fit for me both academically and athletically," mentioned Tom Pizzo. "The atmosphere surrounding the hockey team and school was unbelievable during my visit and getting a chance to play for a nationally ranked team is something I could only dream of before playing for the New Hampshire Junior Monarchs. Being part of a team that expects so much from you as a player and a person will allow me to be successful not only at Clarkson but further down the road when I enter the work place." Pizzo went on to say, "I have matured as a person and player and would not have had the opportunities to be recruited by such great teams had I not played for the Monarchs. My two years here have taught me what it takes to become a champion and I feel fortunate to be attending a college that has a great opportunity to contend for League and National Championships over the next four years. The friendships I've developed over the last two years from being on such close and successful teams is something that I will be remember for the rest of my life. I really appreciate everything that Coach Tremblay, Corkum and Grassie have done for me throughout my career here at the Monarchs and can't wait to begin my collegiate experience at Clarkson with Coach Roll and his staff."

GM/Head Coach Sean Tremblay offered, "I can still remember finishing a game with Capital District on a Sunday afternoon and driving over eight hours in a snowstorm to Syracuse, NY to watch Tommy play in a Jr B showcase. To this day I am grateful for making that trip as it has been an absolute pleasure coaching Tommy and watching him develop into a Division One player. Coach Roll and Clarkson University are receiving not only a solid hockey player, but an outstanding citizen who will certainly make contributions to campus life outside of the game. I know the Monarchs program is certain to miss him and we are thankful for all of his efforts and leadership over his two years with the organization."

Pizzo (5'10/180, left shot) has appeared in 41 EJHL games helping them to a 37-4-1 record and an overall record of 46-5-1. He has a 5-10-15 line. Clarkson is currently ranked 6th in the nation.