NEWS

Toronto Lakeshore Patriots defenceman Michael Apreda (photo credit - Tim Bates/OJHL Images) has confirmed his commitment to join the Curry College Colonels beginning with the 2013-14 ECAC Northeast season.

The Newmarket, Ontario native made the jump to junior in the CCHL, joining the Carleton Place Canadians in 2010-11 from the South Central Coyotes Midget 'AAA' program.  The following season, 2011-12, Apreda made the trek back, joining his hometown Hurricanes, but he would be traded to the Vaughan Vipers after only two games played, recording eight points in 42 games played.  He would step up his offensive contribution in the playoffs, finishing second on the Vipers with six assists in seven games during a first round loss to the Toronto Lakeshore Patriots.  Taking note of Apreda's contributions from the blueline and with the Vipers franchise suspending operations, he was picked up by the Patriots to solidify their blueline for this season.  The hard-nosed rearguard would finish second among defencemen on the club in scoring with 28 points in 53 games played and led the entire squad with 109 penalty minutes.

"The Patriots are very happy that Mike has reached his goal of playing NCAA hockey," said Patriots General Manager Mike Tarantino.  "Curry is a strong program and is led by former OJHL player TJ Manastarsky.  We have no doubt that Mike will be a strong asset to their hockey program and academic community."

Congratulations to Michael and best of luck in the NCAA!