BALAH COMMITS TO NCAA DIVISION 1 HOLY CROSS

The accolades for Dukes defenseman Jonathan Balah are endless, OJHL 2nd Team All-Star, Dukes Player of the Month for February, and many more. The one the Dukes are most proud of is Division 1 College commitment, after the star defenseman committed to Holy Cross University for next season.

Balah joined the Dukes in a pre season trade with Aurora Tigers and had an instant impact on the Dukes team. Known as a highly gifted offensive defenseman, Balah lived up to the hype scoring 51 points (8 goals, 43 assists) in 54 games. The 51 points put Balah in elite company among Dukes all time scoring defenseman, tying for 5th with former Dukes Bryan Helmer and Tyler Lyon.

Dukes head coach, Derek Smith, gave Balah great praise after being reached for comment upon the news of Balah’s commitment to Holy Cross. “Johnny is the ultimate competitor. He will go down as one of the best defenseman to put on a Dukes jersey. He was a leader on the ice with his play, and in the locker room. An offensive force and just as good on the other side of the puck. We wish Johnny all the best as he continues his career at Holy Cross.”

For Balah, he is excited for what is to come in his hockey future as he begins his collegiate career south of the border. “I am so thrilled for what’s to come at Holy Cross, and I am so grateful for all the support along the way. Especially from my coaches and teammates.”

Balah becomes the 6th member of the Dukes to earn a college commitment for the 2022-23 season. The Dukes are so excited for Jonathan and his family and look forward to watching him grow at Holy Cross.