Air Force-Bound Bulls Signed, Sealed and Delivered
May 6, 2004 - North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Billings Bulls News Release
The Billings Bulls are excited to announce the four United States Air Force Academy recruits have been approved for appointment starting at the beginning of July. Bryan Becker, Matt Charbonneau, Josh Print and Blake Turnquist all received word this past week that they will all join the Academy.
Head Coach Mike Aikens knew it was just a matter of time before the boys got the official word. "I should just call us the farm team for the Air Force Academy," joked Aikens. "But on a serious note, how can you not be happy for them. They had to appear before the commission to get final approval and now they will represent us proudly."
Print and Becker have both been verbally committed since the beginning of the 2003-2004 season. Turnquist, whose brother Brooks plays at the Academy, committed mid-season and Matt Charbonneau rounded out the group with his late entry. The Bulls have six commitments this season, five to D-1 schools.
"Like I've said before, it's a great life decision. They are getting a great education and will come out very successful when it's all said and done."
To all the people who think going the Academy route keeps you away from the NHL, think again. Dan Hinote, currently with the Colorado Avalanche, played at West Point (Army) before joining the NHL.
"I'm pretty sure there is some clause that will let players go pro if they are drafted. I will have to check into that, but it's not out of the realm of possibility if any of these young men decide to go pro," said Aikens.
The Bulls will hold a press conference in the coming week to discuss the league meetings that occurred in Frisco, TX this past weekend. Topics will include schedule, teams in the league and other areas that were addressed.
North American Hockey League Stories from May 6, 2004
- Star Defenseman Commits to Bulldogs - Soo Indians
- Air Force-Bound Bulls Signed, Sealed and Delivered - Billings Bulls
- Voice of the Bulls Going Pro - Billings Bulls
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