NAHL Veteran and Johnstown Tomahawks forward Jacob Badal has announced his commitment to play Division I hockey at Ferris State University. The Flushing, Michigan native will be returning to his home state to play for the Bulldogs in Big Rapids for the 2022-23 season.
“I’m super excited to be able to continue my hockey career and play at a very high level,” said Badal. “It’s something I’ve been striving for since I was a kid. Being able to play in my home state is going to be nice, as I will be able to see my family more often and be close to home.”
In his final year of NAHL eligibility and first year in Johnstown, Badal played a huge role offensively for the Tomahawks, putting up 21 goals and 41 assists while appearing in all 60 games played during the 2021-22 season. Badal also had a pair of goals and two assists in the first round series of the Robertson Cup Playoffs against the Jamestown Rebels.
“Jacob was simply outstanding for us this season,” said Head Coach Mike Letizia of Badal’s game. “Last summer with such an extremely small group of NAHL-experienced returners, an opportunity to add someone like him was a no brainer. We could not have imagined how great it would turn out for us.
“He was top notch from day one on and off the ice,” also added Letizia. “There was really no secret that his 200-foot game, consistency and offensive production were vital to our team success all season long.”
Badal’s talents earned him league-wide recognition throughout the season, as he was one of three Tomahawks to participate in the NAHL Top Prospects Tournament back in February and was named East Division Star of the Week in late November – early December.
The 6’1 forward will be joining Tomahawks alumni, goaltender Carter McPhail, at Ferris State in the fall as he begins his NCAA hockey career.
“I could not be happier for Jacob and his family for his new opportunity at Ferris State,” Letizia said on the commitment. “He is truly deserving of this chance to be a Bulldog, and we could not be more proud of him.”