Photo Credit: Tami Knopsnyder
Meier Makes Commitment to Air Force
By Ed Sheets
The North American Hockey League showcase tournament is an exciting time for players. Not only do they get to play four games against other NAHL teams, but they have the opportunity to show off their skills in front of hundreds of scouts representing college and professional organizations who are looking to find new talent.
For Tomahawks forward Matt Meier, the showcase was his opportunity to accept an invitation, as he committed to play hockey for the United States Air Force Academy. “I found out after our third game at the showcase that they had offered me this opportunity,” said Meier. He explained that there were several factors that made Air Force the right choice. “It’s a great opportunity for my future. I get a quality education, and I have a job once I graduate. I also like the coaches.” Meier is also a Colorado native and looks forward to playing college hockey close to home.
Matt will get the opportunity to play under head coach Frank Serratore. Serratore is entering his 17th season as head coach of the Falcons and has won over 270 games. Last season the Falcons went 17-13-7 and finished in second place in the Atlantic Hockey Association with a 15-7-5 conference record. Air Force made the postseason and was eliminated in the AHA quarterfinals.
Meier becomes the first Tomahawks player to commit this season, and will join former Tomahawks goaltender Chris Truehl as a member of the Falcons hockey program. “I’m excited that I will know someone out there who I have something in common with and who knows some of the guys here in Johnstown.”
Even though he has already committed, Meier said that this will make him work even harder this season. “It’s a confidence booster for me and I feel like I have to work hard every game to prove that I deserved this opportunity.”