By Tyler Brown/ Director of Social Media
Wellington Dukes
Photo: OJHL Images
As the regular season ends and the calendar flips to March playoff hockey, another important piece of the Dukes lineup has secured a commitment south of the border as defenseman Connor Loerzel has committed to NCAA Divison III Fredonia State University.
The 2003 born rearguard joined the Dukes in the summer after spending the 2022-23 season with the St. Thomas Stars of the GOJHL. Bringing size and experience to a Dukes team with a lot of question marks at the beginning of the season, Loerzel was able to make an immediate impact for the Dukes. The physical defenseman recorded 5 goals and 12 assists in 51 contests including a 2 goal, 1 assist games against North York on February 1st, 2024.
Dukes Head Coach/Director of Hockey Ops Kent Lewis had high praise for Loerzel upon news of his commitment. “Connor has come in and played a big part of our group. His steady improvement has paid big dividends for us. We are excited for what lies ahead for him”.
For Loerzel, he stated that he is proud and honoured to play for the Blur Devils team next season. “I am proud and honoured to announce my commitment to play college hockey at SUNY Fredonia. Thank you to my family, friends, coaches and advisors that helped me along the way to get there”
Loerzel becomes the 2nd member of the 2023-24 Dukes team to secure an NCAA commitment for next season following Nick DiPaolo’s commitment earlier this month.