NEWS

Aurora Tigers defenceman Matthew Bernard (photo credit - Tim Bates/OJHL Images) has confirmed his commitment to join the Niagara University Purple Eagles beginning with the 2016-17 Atlantic Hockey season.

The Newmarket, Ontario native got his first taste of OJHL action, playing five games as an affiliated midget in 2012-13 out of the York-Simcoe Express Minor Midget 'AAA' program.  Bernard notched 10 points in 34 games for the Express during the season and would register his first junior point with the Hurricanes, while also playing two post-season games during the club's run to the OJHL Championship Series.

Last season, Bernard joined the prestigious Markham Waxers Midget organization and would split the season between the Waxers and Aurora Tigers.  He would play 15 games, while recording three points, including his first junior goal, for the Tigers and earned a full-time promotion to the club this season.  Thus far this season, Bernard has notched five points in 26 games played, while providing a physical presence with 34 penalty minutes.

Congratulations to Matthew on the early achievement and best of luck throughout the remainder of his junior career!