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USHL Waterloo Black Hawks

Hawks Add Felicio in Trade

January 5, 2024 - United States Hockey League (USHL)
Waterloo Black Hawks News Release


Waterloo, Iowa - The Waterloo Black Hawks will bring defenseman Will Felicio to the Cedar Valley as the result of a trade with the Madison Capitols announced on Friday.

The 17-year-old from Holden, Massachusetts, is spending his second season in the United States Hockey League. Felicio is committed to the Denver Pioneers and is a 2024 NHL Draft prospect. In return, Madison receives Waterloo affiliate defenseman John Stout. The teams also exchanged 2024 Phase II USHL Draft selections; the Hawks will pick during Madison's slot in the Seventh Round. The Capitols will receive a Fourth Round choice.

"We are thrilled to add a defenseman of Will's caliber to our team," said Black Hawks General Manager Bryn Chyzyk. "We are extremely happy with the development of our 'D' core this year, and we felt like Will fit nicely within that group."

Felicio has appeared in 78 career USHL games with nine goals and 32 assists. In 23 contests this season, Felicio has 13 points (five goals, eight assists) and a +6 plus/minus differential. He was named the USHL Defenseman of the Week on October 2nd as the result of a three-point showing (one goal, two assists) during Madison's 7-6 win against the Chicago Steel the weekend prior. Felicio followed up with a two-goal night against the Lincoln Stars on October 7th.

In late October, NHL Central Scouting tabbed Felicio a "Watch" prospect for the 2024 NHL Draft. Last month, USA Hockey selected him to appear in the 2024 All-American Game. The exhibition is a showcase of draft-eligible players. Waterloo forward John Mustard will also compete in the matchup on January 15th.

Felicio also distinguished himself during the World Junior A Challenge last month in Truro, Nova Scotia. Playing for Hawks Head Coach Matt Smaby, Felicio notched a goal and three assists during six tournament games. Skating there with soon-to-be Black Hawks teammates Griffin Erdman and Gavin Lindberg, the U.S. Junior Select Team returned with a bronze medal.

Meanwhile, Stout had played in one Black Hawks game during 2022/23 as an affiliate.

"It's always difficult to trade a top prospect from your affiliate list," said Chyzyk. "John Stout is one of the top defenders in Minnesota high school hockey, but it was necessary to acquire a player like Will. We wish John all the best in Madison."

Friday's trade comes 355 days after another deal between Waterloo and Madison involving a highly-regarded Denver recruit. Last January, the Hawks acquired Miko Matikka from the Capitols. The forward went on to tally 11 goals and nine assists in 30 games for the Hawks last spring. Matikka is currently one of the highest-scoring freshmen in NCAA hockey.

Hawks defenseman Nick Fascia represents another connection between Felicio and his new team. Fascia was Felicio's teammate during 31 games for Madison last season. Facia joined the Hawks via an offseason trade and has played in 25 Waterloo games with three goals and five assists.

The Black Hawks meet the Lincoln Stars on the road tonight at 7:05 p.m.

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