Trail Smoke Eaters defenceman Bennett Hambrook committed to NCAA Division III Hamilton College for the 2013-14 season.
Hambrook, from Kimberley, scored a goal and counted 11 points in 29 games as a Smoke Eater in 2012-13 after being acquired from the Salmon Arm SilverBacks in November.
In 135 career BCHL games with Trail, Vernon, Prince George, and Salmon Arm, the 21 year-old totalled 18 points and 183 penalty minutes. He was also a member of the KIJHL finalist Nelson Leafs during the 2009-10 season.
“I’m excited to begin my collegiate career with a first-class program at Hamilton College this fall,” Hambrook said in a release. “Post-secondary education has always been a priority of mine and I couldn’t have asked for a better place to continue my schooling.”
Hambrook is the fourth Smokie to have committed to an NCAA school from last year’s team including Brent Baltus - Michigan Tech, Garrett McMullen - RIT, and Scott Davidson - Quinnipiac.
“I’m grateful for my experiences in the British Columbia Hockey League over the past three years,” Hambrook added. “I’ve had great coaching with every team I’ve played for, and the time I’ve spent in this league has helped me develop on and off the ice.”
“Bennett was a tremendous asset to the Smoke Eater organization both on and off the ice,” stated Smoke Eaters head coach and general manager Bill Birks. “His leadership qualities and work ethic are the best I’ve ever been around. Hamilton is getting a quality player and I couldn’t be happier for Bennett.”
Hamilton College is a private liberal arts college located in Clinton, New York. The Continentals skate in the 10-team New England Small College Athletic Association (NESCAC).