Bonnyville Pontiacs Forward Luka Sukovic has committed to Clarkson University as of Tuesday, October 31st, 2023.
“Clarkson was the right fit for me because of it’s culture, education, and proven track record of moving players on to the next level,” said Luka Sukovic.
“I felt extremely comfortable with the coaching staff there. They have a vision for the team and for me going forward.
“Clarkson is getting a 200-foot power forward with skill, size, high hockey IQ, and a heavy shot. Someone who is going to work his hardest every time he hits the ice, gym, and for the logo on the front of his jersey and his teammates.”
The 2003 Illinois native has produced 13 goals and 11 assists for 24 points in 18 games played and leads all Pontiacs in points this season. Sukovic is now the second Division I commitment of the year for the Pontiacs.
“Luca is probably one of the players who has the best work ethic and he’s doing extra everyday on and off the Ice,” said head coach Mario Pouliot. “It’s why he’s one of the best players in the whole league this year.
“When work ethic, high compete level, and good potential meet, You’re doing something pretty interesting and it’s exactly what has happened with Suko [Luka Sukovic].”
The 196lbs right handed forward produced in key moments for the Pontiacs in the playoffs last year such as the game winning goal in round one against the Bobcats that gave the yaks a 3-2 series lead.
The Yaks and Sukovic’s playoff journey last season ended with a trip to the North Division Final for just the second time in franchise history.
“He’s a talented player but more than that he’s working really hard,” said coach Pouliot. “His work ethic is through the roof and it’s well deserved. He’s a great example for others to follow.
“Some guys talk and dream about being committed and for Luka, he was working to get committed so all the credit to him for making it happen.”
Sukovic is now the 7th college committed player on the yaks roster so far this season, all of which are NCAA Division I commits.
“The Yaks have helped a lot getting me to where I am now,” said Sukovic. “They have given me a platform to showcase myself and provide the players many resources to improve.
“Coach Mario has helped me tremendously as far as attention to detail along with his honest assessment of my game and how best to improve.
The Clarkson University Golden Knights are a division I team located in Potsdam, NY and play in the ECAC of the NCAA. The Golden Knights were one of the original 28 founding teams of the ECAC.
After 18 games played in the season, the Pontiacs are 10-6-2 (W-L-OTL) and are in fifth place in the AJHL with 22 points.
“I am excited to keep buzzing with the boys on the ice and to get ready for hopefully a long season,” said Sukovic.
The Pontiacs head into this weekend on a three game win streak after defeating the Sherwood Park Crusaders on the road followed by the Grande Prairie Storm in back to back games at home.
The Yaks hit the road against the Olds Grizzlys on Friday November 3rd, 2023. Puck drop is at 7:00pm where Luka Sukovic will suit up for his first game as a college committed player.
The Pontiacs next home game will be Wednesday, November 8th against the Lloydminster Bobcats at 7:00pm MT. Tickets are available for purchase online HERE