Another one of the Voodoos graduating players has found an NCAA home for the 2023-24 season.
Chase Strychaluk (Str-eye-chal-uk) has committed to play for Castleton University Spartans NCAA Division III hockey program which plays in the New England Hockey Conference (NEHC).
“I fell in love with the state of Vermont when I went on my school visit,” he said.
“The coaches and the team itself made it seem to me like the perfect spot. I went from not really having any intentions of going here to it being my number one choice.”
In 20 games with the Voodoos, Strychaluk has netted 4 goals and 18 assists for 22 points after joining the Voodoos in a November trade with the Haliburton Huskies of the OJHL.
“I came here not knowing about Powassan but all I have had is pleasant surprises because it has been a really good time here,” said the 20-year-old Oakville product.
Strychaluk, who spent his entire junior career in the OJHL prior to the November trade, says he credits the Voodoos coaching staff of Peter Goulet, Josh Hardiman and Josh Dale for helping with his development.
“The moment I met Peter Goulet, I knew he was a coach I wanted to play for,” he said.
“Peter is outstanding, he makes you want to play for him. He does not make it feel like hockey is a chore and he has a way of making you want to compete for the team.”
Goulet was thrilled to find out about the latest commitment.
“Chase is a great young man and we were all very happy that Chase decided to come play for us,” said Goulet.
“Chase is an outstanding student and and a great hockey player which is a great fit for Castleton University and the Head Coach Kyle Richards.”
Strychaluk is not only joining the Spartans hockey team, he is also expected to be part of their lacrosse program as a multi-sport student athlete.
Strychaluk is the fourth Voodoos player to receive University commitments following Kannon Flageolle, Liam Serviss, and most recently Conor O’Brien.