Odessa, TX (May 9, 2016) – The Odessa Jackalopes, proud members of the North American Hockey League, are excited to announce the tender signing of puck-moving defenseman Zac Herrmann (6-0/181). Herrmann becomes Odessa’s seventh and final NAHL tender singing and a much-needed defensive addition after the departures of Danny Kiraly, Drew McLean, Ben DiMaio, and Nate Werhane.
Herrmann, who is committed to Niagara University (Atlantic Hockey, D1) in 2017-18, posted impressive offensive numbers in 2015-16 with the Burlington Cougars (Ontario Junior Hockey League) collecting 43 points (9-34-43) in 52 regular-season games played, and 14 points (6-8-14) in 17 playoff games. The 18-year-old Lancaster, NY, native is expected to fill the void on both the power play and penalty kill left by departing d-men Kiraly and McLean.
“We’re excited to get a player of Zac’s caliber and we think he’s going to be a great addition both on and off the ice,” said Head Coach Greg Gatto. “He (Zac) will be looked upon to lead our power play and take a leadership role in the locker room.”
Herrmann was selected in the 5th round, 67th overall, in last Tuesday’s (May 3) Phase II of the USHL Draft by the Omaha Lancers.
“I’m really excited, the opportunity just seemed right,” said Herrmann. “Niagara really wanted me to play in this League (NAHL) before I go off to college next year.” Herrmann, who was at Odessa’s camp last season, built a relationship with former three-year Jack and Niagara bound forward Derek Brown, who Herrmann said, has been sending him photo’s of the locker room and really selling him on Odessa.
The Jacks are expecting the return of d-men Cooper Zech (Alaska-Fairbanks, D1) and Jake Levin (Air Force, D1) despite both players being taken in last Tuesday’s USHL Draft.
2016-17 season tickets are on sale and start at $179. To reserve your seats, contact the Jackalopes’ ticket office today at 432-552-7825 or log on to www.jackalopes.org for more information.
Be sure to follow the Jackalopes on Twitter @LetsGoJacks all year long and don’t forget to ‘Like’ the official “Odessa Jackalopes” fan page on Facebook.
