Quigley considers college options

January 11, 2007 - North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Mahoning Valley Phantoms News Release


BOARDMAN, Ohio - When it comes to his hockey future, the question for Matt Quigley is not if or when, but where?

The Mahoning Valley Phantoms right wing is in the middle of a productive second season and has drawn the attention of many NCAA teams that wish to have Quigley on their roster next season.

Division 1 colleges including Brown, Mercyhurst, New Hampshire, Northeastern and RIT (Rochester Institute of Technology) have all expressed an interest in the Pittsburgh, Pa. native, who graduated from Fox Chapel High School last year.

"The Phantoms coaching staff has done a really good job communicating with the colleges that I'd like to go to," Quigley said. "They've convinced them to come out and see me play."

During the season, he lives with Phantoms host family Karen and Stephen Price of Poland.

In 37 games, Quigley has 16 goals and 20 assists for 36 points, which ties him for 16th in North American Hockey League scoring.

For Quigley, who began skating the age of six, the decision of where to further his athletic and academic career has become less of a distraction on the ice.

"It's definitely a little more nerve-racking now, getting down to the wire. But I've been able to calm down lately, play better and just get back to the game."

He said his second year in junior hockey is the main reason for his improved play. "I'm seeing the ice better, which has helped my offensive game a lot. I have a lot more poise and patience with the puck," Quigley said. "But I'd like to work more on my play in the defensive zone, like clearing the puck out. I also need to keep myself square to the puck more consistently."

Last season, Quigley recorded 21 points on eight goals and 13 assists in 45 games.

Last August, Quigley entered training camp at 200 pounds to go with his 5-foot-10 inch frame, and has since bulked up to between 205 and 210. His coaches say the extra weight has not affected his speed, which is one of his many drawing cards attracting those at the next level.

"Matt's skill set continues to grow as he has," Phantoms Coach Bob Mainhardt. "He has developed his game well in all situations and in all three zones. He will make an immediate impact at the college level."

The Mahoning Valley Phantoms are owned by the B.J. Alan Company- Phantom Fireworks, which is headquartered in Youngstown, Ohio.



North American Hockey League Stories from January 11, 2007


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