Submitted by Neepawa Natives
Congratulations to last year’s 20 year old defenseman Nick Sandy. Nick is the next graduating player to move on to the next level this season. All three of the Neepawa Natives graduating players have committed to schools for 2015-16.
Nick has recently committed to Iowa State University (ISU) for the 2015-2016 season. The Iowa State University Cyclones have been an American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) powerhouse since its inception. The team has many ACHA Frozen Four appearances and was the ACHA Nation Championship in 1992.
The ISU Cyclones play in the Central States Collegiate Hockey League. The Central States Collegiate Hockey League is Division I ACHA hockey-college athletic conference and is one of the top ranked ACHA leagues.
Sandy played two seasons in Neepawa, playing an important role in both the community and with the hockey club. Nick enjoyed his experience with the Natives stating, “I would like to thank all my teammates and the entire Natives organization. I would also like to thank my billets, John and Gerry Nelson as well as Glen and Cindy Tibbett for their hospitality and kindness. My two years as a Native gave me the opportunity to develop and achieve my goal of playing college hockey”. Nick continued to share his enthusiasm for the Cyclones next season, “I chose Iowa State University because it was the best fit for both my education and hockey career. I am excited to continue to play hockey and have the experience of playing in a completely new environment.”
As one of three graduating players last year, Nick accumulated 12 assists in 60 games and led the Natives’ defense in points this season. The Calgary, Alberta native played an important role with our club last season and we would like to wish Nick future success with the Cyclones.