USHL Muskegon Lumberjacks

From Undrafted to Committed: Crowder Commits to UNO

Published on February 19, 2018 under United States Hockey League (USHL)
Muskegon Lumberjacks News Release


MUSKEGON, MI - Muskegon Lumberjacks defenseman Bray Crowder has announced his commitment to play collegiate hockey for the University of Nebraska-Omaha.

The 6-foot-6 native of Sudbury, Ontario, has been a standout for Muskegon this season, playing in all but one game for the Lumberjacks and totaling 13 points. Crowder's five goals rank tied for sixth in the USHL among defensemen.

Despite being undrafted in the USHL, the 19-year-old has spent most of his first USHL season on Muskegon's top defense pair. Crowder was invited to Muskegon's main camp this summer, was among the 30 players invited to fall camp, made the team, and worked his way up to the Jacks' top unit. Crowder has been among Muskegon's top men in minutes played, seeing time on the power play and penalty kill for head coach John LaFontaine.

What stands out about Bray is his smarts," said LaFontaine. "And at 6-foot-6, you wouldn't think he would be mobile, but he tested out incredibly well at our fall camp and made our team. When we went to SkyZone for a team event and saw him rattle off six straight backflips, I'll never forget that.

"He's been willing to learn and [assistant coach] Josh Nelson has done a great job in developing Crowder's game. Can't be happier for Bray. We are fortunate to have him this year and Nebraska-Omaha will be fortunate to have him next year."

After a strong season in Muskegon, Crowder is looking forward to taking the next step in his career.

"I chose UNO because I felt a really strong connection with the coaching staff," said Crowder. "I see myself growing as a person and hockey player there."

Crowder plans to enroll for the 2018-19 season and will join Lumberjack alums Steven Spinner and Riley Alferd on the roster. Current teammates Matej Pekar and Nolan Sullivan are also committed to play at UNO, and former Jack equipment manager Jason Smits now has the same role for the Mavericks.

Check out the Muskegon Lumberjacks Statistics

Share: Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedIn | Reddit | Email



United States Hockey League Stories from February 19, 2018


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.

OurSports Central