Photo - Ed McPherson/OJHL Images

Despite the OJHL Regular Season being cancelled due to the ongoing Covid-19 Pandemic, the Wellington Dukes continue to develop players for the next level as 2000 born Forward Tyler Ignazzitto has committed to NCAA Division III Albertus Magnus.

Tyler, who joined the Dukes back in August after a trade with the Collingwood Blues, will join the Falcons's program and study Health Science at the New Haven, Connecticut College. The forward stated that he was looking forward to joining the young program which also features former Dukes goaltender Logan Bateman. "I thought Albertus Magnus was the perfect combination of academics and athletics. I wanted to go to a place in which I would have an opportunity to play and contribute right away, and with the Falcons being an up and coming program, I thought it was the perfect fit. I look forward to obtaining a degree in Health Science and competing for a National Championship."

Dukes Head Coach Derek Smith spoke very highly of Ignazzitto's play on and the ice and the impact he had on a younger than usual Dukes team this past season. "Iggy made an instant impact in our locker room since his arrival in August. His leadership was a key part of the success we had as a team, as well as each players individual development during this "crazy" season. Iggy thinks the game at such a high level that he makes the players around him better. We will miss him on and off the ice next season, but wish him the best as he moves on to the next chapter of his life and hockey career." Smith went on to thank Ignazzitto for his dedication to the Dukes in this season that was far from normal.

Dukes GM, Rob Rigdley, echoed similar sentiments when reached for comment about Ignazzitto's commitment, "Iggy is ready to take the next step. He leads by example on and off the ice. I've watched his development since having him as an AP in Kingston with the Voyageurs a few years ago. He's coachable and determined. Albertus Magnus are getting a real good player and even better person, he deserves everything he gets. He had some difficult decisions to make on where he wanted to play next, and the Dukes are proud of his decision and look forward to following his progress in the NCAA."

Praised by many for his leadership characteristics, Ignazzitto remained humble and gave praise to his family and teammates for helping get him to this level "I have to thank my family and teammates for getting me to this point in hockey. Without their help and sacrifices during my career, this wouldn't have been possible. I also want to thank the entire Dukes organization, especially Rob (Ridgley) and Derek (Smith), for guiding me throughout the process."