Sports stats



AHL Utica Comets

Bright Comets: Benn Ferriero Shined at Boston College

November 25, 2013 - American Hockey League (AHL)
Utica Comets News Release


Utica Comets forward Benn Ferriero is no stranger to success, especially on the ice. Like many of his fellow Comets teammates, Ferriero chose to pursue a college degree while continuing a successful hockey career that landed him in Utica for the 2013-14 season.

Before become a professional hockey player, Ferriero attended Boston College, one of those renowned Division I hockey schools in the country. "I chose Boston College because they had a combination of everything that I was looking for," Ferriero explained. "I'm from Boston, and I always wanted the chance to play in the Beanpot. I was a fan of BC when I was a kid and it was where I always imagined going to school." Ferriero also enjoyed the friendly rivalries that he had between friends who attended Boston University, another top Division I hockey school just miles away.

While playing at Boston College, Ferriero quickly made a name for himself. In four years, the winger posted 139 points in 165 games (64-75-139). Ferriero was also lucky enough to make it to the National Championship three years in a row, finally winning the title his junior year. "Finally winning in 2008 is one of the things that I am most proud of in my hockey career. I will always remember the guys who were on the team with me...I made some good friendships that I will never forget."

Ferriero learned early on that he was going to have to work hard if he wanted to succeed at a challenging college like BC. "My parents were definitely the ones who forced me to do my homework growing up. I wasn't allowed to go play with my friends after school until it was done, so I learned at an early age that I had to do it whether I liked it or not. That attitude has definitely benefited me in the long run," he admitted. And at a school like Boston College, where academics are so important, Ferriero continued to put his academics first. "The school side of college was not easy for me," he acknowledged. "I always got pretty good grades in high school, but BC is a really difficult school. There were no free A's handed out, especially to athletes like some people think, and I had to go to study hall every week for a certain amount of time." In 2006, just after his freshman year, Ferriero's hard work paid off; he was drafted by the Phoenix Coyotes in the seventh round, 196th overall. He graduated in 2009 with a business degree, which he knows he can put to use once his hockey career is over.

Even while juggling both hockey and academics, Ferriero managed to relax and enjoy his four years at college. He explained the importance of relaxing and enjoying the experience, stating, "I enjoyed attending other sporting events on campus, like the football and baseball games. Even going out after a Saturday night with other students was a good way to make memories and explore the city of Boston."

When asked if he had any advice for students striving towards a Boston College education and hockey career, Ferriero suggested, "The kids need to go to college and make the most of it. Those four years changed me as a player. I spent most of my time getting stronger and improving my skills. There's no rush to get to the pros. Focus on graduating with a degree and growing as a hockey player."

Check out the Utica Comets Statistics

• Discuss this story on the American Hockey League message board...

American Hockey League Stories from November 25, 2013


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

Other Recent Utica Comets Stories



Sports Statistics from the Stats Crew
OurSports Central