The Bonnyville Pontiacs are thrilled to announce the team's second NCAA commitment in the last three weeks. Following Ethan Leyer’s commitment to the National Collegiate Athletic Association St. Cloud University Huskies on September 26th, the Pontiacs are pleased to report second year Pontiac defenceman Luke Albert has committed to the Brown University Bears in Providence, Rhode Island for 2019/20.
“I’d like to thank my teammates, friends, coaches, and especially my family for helping me make this dream come true,” said Albert. “The development opportunity afforded me in Bonnyville has helped me reach my goal of committing to a terrific school like Brown University. Coming to Bonnyville was the best thing that could happen to me to help me achieve this commitment.”
Albert registered 20 points in 27 games with the Pontiacs last season after joining the club following a mid-season trade. He was awarded as the team's Most Outstanding Defenseman. In 11 games this year Albert has 2 goals and 7 points.
“Luke is not only a leader on our blueline and team, but also in our dressing room,” said Pontiacs Head Coach Rick Swan. “He has all the abilities to become a great NCAA Division I player and it is great to see Luke rewarded for his hard work both on and off the ice. He is an outstanding character kid who comes from a great, supportive family.”
The Brown Bears are led this season by another former Bonnyville Pontiacs blueliner. Former Pontiac and Old Bridge, N.J. product Max Gottlieb is a senior at Brown and was recently named the team's captain. Max on his captaincy, “it's an incredible honour to wear a 'C' for Brown given its history and some of the names who have worn that letter in the past,” said Gottlieb. “I'm excited to get to work with the great group we have, to form an identity and establish ourselves both in the ECAC and nationally.”
Luke Albert becomes the 54th player who has played for the Pontiacs and committed to play college hockey since the 2013/14 season.