The Cats lineup in 2008-09 just got a little stronger with the official signing of four top-notch recruits. The class consists of three forwards and one defenseman. Just on paper alone, this is a solid class worthy of a B+ or B ranking compared with the big time programs around the nation. Three players are from the great province of Alberta, while the lone American is a proud native son of Marquette.

Justin Florek, 6′4, 195 Forward (Marquette native) US National Team (U-18)
Justin has the potential to be a big time player for NMU. He is still very young and will only be 18 when he comes to NMU. Expect this Marquette product to be drafted by the NHL in the near future. He is not producing much in the US-Under 18 team, but will come into his own as he grows. He has 3 goals and 2 assists in 16 games as of 11/30.

Andrew Cherniwchan, 5′11, 165 Forward (Hinton, AB) Drayton Valley, AJHL
Andrew is a talented forward who currently sits amongst the top 15 in scoring in the Alberta Junior Hockey League. He will be 19 when he comes to NMU in the fall. He has 18 goals, 19 assists in 28 games as of 11/30.
Andrew’s Link


Tyler Gron, 6′, 200 Forward (Spruce Grove, AB) Fort McMurray, AJHL
Tyler is also a talented forward who currently sits amongst the top 5 in scoring in the Alberta Junior Hockey League. He will also be 19 when he comes to NMU in the fall. He has 19 goals, 24 assists in 32 games as of 11/30.
Tyler’s Link

Cory Pritz, 5′10″, 180 Defense (Red Deer, AB) Westside Warriors, BCHL
Cory is also a native of Alberta. He may be small for a defensman, but is obviously very skilled. He is fourth on his team in scoring with 11 goals and 11 assists in 27 games as of 11/30.
Cory’s Link