Cope Selects Robert Morris University

January 4, 2012 - North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Wenatchee Wild News Release


WENATCHEE, Wash. - The next stage of Matt Cope's career is set. The 18-year-old Lakewood, Colo., nativehas committed to continue his education and hockey career at Division I RobertMorris University.

Cope, in his second season withthe Wenatchee Wild, made his decision to commit to Robert Morris on ChristmasEve.

"It's really exciting," said Cope, who noted that he hasfamily members who live near the campus. "A lot of thought went into thedecision. It was a relief and a big weight off my shoulders to find the placethat I'm going to go to and play at."

Located in Moon Township, Pa.,Robert Morris' men's ice hockey team is in just its eighth year of competition.Under the direction of Derek Schooley, the Colonials have improved steadilysince their inaugural season in 2004-05.

In 2009-10, Robert Morris beatthen No. 1-ranked Miami (Ohio) twice. The Colonials won a school-best 18 gameslast season, and 30 former players have gone on to play professionally. TheColonials are currently in second place in the Atlantic Hockey Association(AHA) with an overall record of 9-7-2 (7-2-2 AHA).

"The program is still new," Copesaid, "And the success that they have had from year to year is impressive."

Cope has 10 points (6G, 4A) in 27games with the Wild this season. He recorded 16 points (8G, 8A) and was plus-10in 49 games with the Wild in 2010-11.

"I think [Cope's commitment] is really good in a sense thatit's still very early in Matt's [junior] career," said Wild head coach John Becanic. "It's always nice to seea guy who plays hard and works hard get rewarded with a scholarship.Physically, Matt's ready. Detail-wise and ability-wise, he's ready."

Cope and the rest of his Wild teammates will travel toFresno, Calif., this weekend (Jan. 6-7) for a 2-game series against theMonsters. Both games will begin at 7:35 p.m. and can be heard live on 560 AMKPQ. Additionally, for a small fee, all of the Wild's games can be viewed liveonline at www.FASTHockey.com.



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