Minot defenseman Sawchuk makes NCAA DI commitment
February 7, 2018
Minot defenseman Nolan Sawchuk played in the 2017 NAHL Top Prospects Tournament and also spent some time in the NAPHL during the 2014-15 season.
The Minot Minotauros of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are proud to announce that Assistant Captain and defenseman Nolan Sawchuk has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey at the University of Massachusetts-Lowell.
Sawchuk becomes the fifth Minotauros player to commit to play NCAA DI hockey this season and the 32nd overall.
Sawchuk, 20, cited several reasons for deciding to go to UMass-Lowell. “It’s a great school, a historic program, and a great location. After talking to the coaching staff I think it will be a good fit for me.”
When he arrives on campus next year he will be reunited with Tauro alum Reid Stefanson, a reunion he is looking forward to. “For sure I’m looking forward to playing with Reid again, it will be fun to have that bond.”
The 5’11/175 native of Burnsville, Minnesota, is in his second and final season in Minot where he has played 96 career games. Over that time the defenseman has posted five goals and 52 assists to go with a +39 rating. His +39 rating is the best career rating for any Minotauro, six points ahead of second place Christian Mohs (Miami University).
Sawchuk was also selected to and played in the 2017 NAHL Top Prospects Tournament for the Central Division team. In addition, he played part of the 2014-15 season in the NAPHL with the Minnesota Revolution 18U tea,.
Sawchuk’s contributions on the ice go beyond his measurable stats. Since joining the Tauros Sawchuk has been on the top defensive pairing, last season matched with former Captain Jake Dittlel and this season with Colby Enns. Sawchuk wears an “A” as well because of the way he leads by example.
Tauros Head Coach and General Manager Marty Murray believes there are few as deserving of the opportunity as Sawchuk. “Nolan’s been a very good defenseman for two years for us. I can honestly say that in my seven years here I haven’t seen a more consistent player. He prepares for practice and games like a professional.”
Sawchuk also gave credit to those whom have helped him along the way. “Thank you to the Minotauros organization, Marty and Wags [Assistant Coach Shane Wagner] have helped me a ton along the way. Promoting my play to schools and teaching me along the way. All of my current and past teammates for pushing me every day. Most importantly my family for always being with me and supporting all of my decisions.”
