Wayne, NJ- The Jersey Hitmen are proud to announce that veteran defenseman Connor Clifton has been named to the U.S. Under-18 Select Team which will represent the U.S.A at the 2012 Memorial of Ivan Hlinka Tournament next month in Breclav, Czech Republic. This will be Clifton's fourth stint with the U.S. national team over the past two summers. Clifton competed with the Under-17 team last summer overseas, then was loaned to the USNTDP team for a two-month stretch last season, including playing in the Four Nations Cup in Ann Arbor, MI.

"I am so happy for Connor and the Clifton family," commented coach Harris. "Connor has continued to grow both on and off the ice since joining the Hitmen organization in 2009. He has gotten bigger, stronger and has really started to learn the intricacies of the game. After committing to Quinnipiac early last season we thought that his game may take a dip, but Connor stayed focus and continued his consistent, punishing play right through playoffs." 

Harris added, "Connor will be a big part of a very strong Hitmen D corps next season, and I truly believe that the Hlinka tournament will be a spring board for big things next season. With a strong tournament, big off-season, and quick start, I know there will be a lot of NHL buzz around Connor."

-Courtesy of Jersey Hitmen