Aron Jessli of the  Ontario Junior Hockey League’s Pickering Panthers (photo credit - Michelle Malvaso | OJHL Images) has confirmed his commitment to join the NCAA Niagara University Purple Eagles in Lewiston, NY beginning with the 2024-25 season.

The 18-year-old from ​​Lørenskog, Norway was a member of Pickering’s OJHL championship team last season.

Following up on a 27-point season, Jessli has scored nine goals and assisted on 15 more in 22 games for the Panthers this year.

“My time in Pickering has been awesome; lots of ups and downs,” Jessli told the OJHL. “But overall it’s been an amazing experience and I have learned so much.” 

Following two years in the GTHL, he played for a U18 team in Rauma, Finland during the 2020-21 season.

He arrived in Pickering somewhat by chance.

“I was in Toronto training the summer before the 2021-22 season and my buddy, Zacch Wisdom, was with the Panthers,” Jessli said. “He brought me to a skate and they gave me a spot on the team.”

And the interest from Niagara?

“They first made contact at the (OJHL Governors’ Showcase) in October and we have been talking ever since,”Jessli said.

His coach in the OJHL is impressed.

“Aron has a very high skill level,” said former NHLer Rob Pearson, the head coach and general manager in Pickering. “Skating, skating with the puck, shooting ability are all on a pro level. Aron is starting to find his ability and the confidence to execute all those skills. 

“Aron will continue to grow into an elite player. NU, Niagara University,  has made a great commitment here. Congrats, Aron.” 

Jessli will join fellow current OJHLers Andy Reist (Cobourg Cougars) and Jack Richard (Burlington Cougars) at Niagara. Former OJHLer Jason Pineo (North York, Jr. Canadiens, Oakville) is a senior at the school.

Congratulations to Aron and best of luck in the NCAA!

The OJHL, the largest Jr. A hockey league in Canada, has had more than 90 NCAA, U SPORTS, CHL and professional commitments in 2021-22 – including more than 25 NCAA Division I scholarships.

Check out all our 2022-23 commitments by clicking HERE