JOHNSTOWN – The Johnstown Tomahawks, proud members of the North American Hockey League, announced Thursday that forward Donovan Ott has committed to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and will join the team effective immediately.
Ott, a native of Lebanon, Pa., was amid his second season with the Tomahawks, scoring seven goals and eight assists in 17 games played.
He ends his Tomahawks career with numerous accolades including most goals in a season (32, set in 2016-17), fifth in all-time points (72) and fourth in all-time goals (39).
“I am extremely proud of Donovan for working for and earning this opportunity to play Division 1 hockey at RPI,” head coach Mike Letizia said. “Since Donovan came to our hockey team in 2016, he has been a standout player, and proved to be one of the best players in the NAHL. Returning to our team this season in late October provided a real veteran boost through on ice performance and off-ice leadership and accountability.”
Letizia commented that Ott has a love for the game of hockey and will have a chance to succeed at RPI.
“The chance to join RPI for the rest of the season and play immediately was something that doesn’t come around often, and I look forward to watching him start his college career,” Letizia said. “The most rewarding part of my job is helping kids advance and reach their goals of playing hockey at the next level, and I could not be happier for Donovan and his family.”
Located in Troy, N.Y., the RPI Engineers compete in the ECAC conference. Notable hockey players to skate for RPI include former Johnstown Chiefs player Bruce Coles, Hockey Hall of Famer Adam Oates and former NHLer Joé Juneau.
The Tomahawks are back home this weekend for three games vs the Northeast Generals (January 12 -14 2018).
On Friday, January 12, 2018 it’s WinterFest Weekend – Youth Sports Night presented by Hogue’s Fun Factory and Palcs. Kids will run the show during Winterfest weekend. Special concourse games and entertainment will be on hand. It’s also Friday Family Four Pack – 4 for $44 (4 hot dogs/ 4 drinks/ 4 tickets/ 1 popcorn).
On Saturday, January 13, 2018 it’s Princess & Heroes Night presented by JAHA. Join your favorite Princesses and Super Heroes for the 1st Annual JAHA event at the rink. Celebrating Chopper’s birthday with mascot mania as well. First 500 fans will receive hand-clapper giveaway.
Finally, on Sunday, January 14, 2018 it’s Sundae Funday. Ice Cream giveaway. It’s also Kids Club Game #2. There will be a post-game skate and autograph session. HAWKEY Bingo – watch, play, win! (first 1,000).
Tickets are still available for all three games and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com – calling Ticketmaster directly at 1-800-745-3000, or visiting 1st Summit Arena @ Cambria County War Memorial box office.
